Eli is an Australian violist from Brisbane, who was living in Germany before joining the NZSO in 2023.

He received his Bachelor of Music from the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University, before pursuing further studies in Melbourne at the Australian National Academy of Music. Seduced by the European lifestyle during academy projects with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Vienna Philharmonic Summer Academy, he began his Master’s studies at the Universität Mozarteum Salzburg in 2018. In 2020, Eli moved to Germany to play in the Staatsphilharmonie Nürnberg, where he remained until relocating to Wellington at the end of 2023.

Eli has had the privilege of learning from many skilled and passionate teachers and mentors and has performed across Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand in concerts, projects, and festivals with numerous inspiring musicians.

While in Europe, Eli developed a particular affinity for opera, beer gardens, and Christmas markets, but couldn’t be happier to now call Wellington and the NZSO his home. Aside from playing viola, Eli enjoys exploring the Zealandia ecosanctuary, visiting Wellington Zoo and many wineries, and is the proud owner of a new inflatable kayak. One day, he hopes to spot a kiwi in the wild.