Get to know ASO Tutti Cello Andrew Leask

What sparked your journey to begin playing your instrument, and when?

I was eight years old and I was enrolled to start the beginner strings program at my school. Since both of my older sisters played the violin, I also wanted to play the violin, but the school had too many violins and needed more cellos. The teacher asked me if I was interested in playing the cello instead. Turned out pretty well I think.

Is there anything special about your instrument?

I’m still playing on my first full size cello! I bought it brand new when I was 12 from a music store in Brisbane near where I grew up, and I have been playing on it ever since. It has literally been a part of my entire musical journey, through Queensland Youth Orchestras, Australian Youth Orchestra, University and into my professional career.

It’s travelled the world with me, gotten me through numerous auditions and played with some phenomenal colleagues in amazing venues – needless to say, I’m quite attached!

How did you come to be with the ASO, and do you have a favourite memory so far?

My first experience with the ASO was as part of the 2017 AYO fellowship program, which involved professional development sessions with members from the orchestra, a side-by-side rehearsal and a casual audition. I remember watching the orchestra perform Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 4 at the end of the week, sitting at the back of Adelaide Town Hall thinking how amazing it would be to be part of the cello section.

I came back to Adelaide in 2022 for the Associate Principal Cello Audition, and whilst I didn’t get the job, I was fortunate enough to be offered a 12-month contract with the orchestra. Thankfully, during that time I successfully auditioned for a permanent position so I’m very grateful to be sticking around. 

What is your favourite piece of classical music, and why?

If I can only pick one piece, I would have to say Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony. It was the first full symphony I ever played, and it is the piece that inspired me to pursue a professional career. There is a beautiful cello solo in the 2^nd movement which is really satisfying to play.

Who is a composer you would like to see more classical music fans appreciate?

Shostakovich. His music is loud, energetic, exciting. There are some really amazing Shosta symphonies that aren’t regularly programmed by the big orchestras. I have a goal to perform all of them in my career. I’ve only played 5 out of 15 so far so I’ve got a few to go.

Do you enjoy playing any other genres of music besides classical? What are they and why?

I sometimes play traditional folk duos with my wife (violin) and a glass of wine on the weekend. We learnt some great arrangements by Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas when we were in lockdown in our tiny London apartment during covid. They’re nice to come back to on a lazy afternoon.

What part of performing with an orchestra do you find most meaningful or important to you?

I love that in an orchestra, you’re better together. No one single performer could do it on their own. There is something really rewarding about having a collective shared experience with your colleagues and with the audience, that you can’t quite put into words, but you know everyone is feeling the same thing.

What would be your ideal piece to hear the orchestra play? Would you like to play it or be in the audience?

I’d love ASO to play Lutoslawski’s Concerto for Orchestra – with me in the cello section! I’ve never played it before but it’s on my bucket list. It is a hybrid 20th century classical, folk style composition.

 Andrew is supported by John Sulan KC & Ali Sulan via our Musical Chairs program.