Tyler Wilkinson brings exceptional talent and passion to the SYO Winter School Symphony Orchestra. His musical journey with Sydney Youth Orchestras began in 2011 as a member of SWO, eventually rising to the prestigious position of Principal Trumpet of the SYO. This full-circle story—from student musician to conductor—gives Tyler a unique understanding of the aspirations and challenges facing young orchestral performers.

A versatile conductor, teacher, and trumpeter, Tyler holds a Bachelor of Music Performance in Classical Trumpet from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and a Master of Teaching (Secondary) from the University of Sydney. His academic foundation harmonises perfectly with his practical experience, creating a conductor whose musical understanding spans both theory and performance.

Tyler’s orchestral credentials resonate with depth and breadth. He performed professionally with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra during his studies and participated in international tours to Italy, Denmark, and London through various auditioned Chamber Music scholarships. As Principal Trumpet, Tyler was part of the 2017 Sydney Youth Orchestra European Tour, an experience that informs his approach to preparing young musicians for performance excellence.

Since January 2023, Tyler has conducted the Symphonic Wind Orchestra (SWO) in SYO’s Symphonic Orchestral Program while also leading Summer and Winter School programs. His orchestral leadership extends to his role as Head of Bands at The King’s School since 2022, where he oversees a substantial portion of the co-curricular program in both Preparatory and Senior Schools, conducting Wind Bands, Jazz Ensembles, and the Symphony Orchestra.

Tyler’s passion for nurturing young talent flows through his teaching symphony across prestigious Sydney institutions and his current role as Secretary of the Australian Band and Orchestra Directors Association (ABODA) NSW branch.

Having stood in both the orchestra and on the podium, Tyler conducts with empathy, precision, and infectious enthusiasm. His intimate knowledge of the SYO journey makes him an ideal mentor to guide our Winter School Symphony Orchestra participants toward their full musical potential.