The Sound Insights series at Melbourne Recital Centre offers learners the opportunity to hear syllabus favourites performed by esteemed AMEB examiners. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear discussions about the pieces, gain insights from composers, and receive invaluable advice designed to assist and inspire developing musicians.

In the lead up to the launch of the AMEB Sound Insights Series for 2025, we caught up with concert violinist and examiner, Markiyan Melnychenko. We found out about his AMEB favourites, his love for the violin, and playing for Barack Obama’s Inaugural Luncheon.

When did you start playing the violin?
When I was around 7 years of age.

Why did you choose this instrument?
I had actually first started playing the piano as my mother is a pianist but then picked up the violin as a second instrument. As time went on the violin took over and became my main focus. I have always loved and been fascinated by the possibilities of the violin to create such a wide range of musical colours.

What has been your career highlight?
One of my most memorable performances was playing during the Inaugural Luncheon at US President Barack Obama’s 2014 Inauguration at the Capitol in Washington DC. The history of the building itself was very interesting and it was also a special experience to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of what happens during those official proceedings.

What is your favourite AMEB repertoire for violin?
That’s a difficult question to answer, with so much terrific music to be found in the AMEB syllabus. If I have to single something out then I’d say for Level 2, I always enjoy listening to the Fauré Sicilienne while for Level 3, the Szymanowski Nocturne and Tarantelle is very atmospheric and exciting.

What do you like best about being an AMEB examiner?
I’m touched and grateful for the opportunity to listen to the sincere music-making of talented students. Sometimes you feel as if you are attending your own personal concert of beautiful music!

Why is AMEB important for the development of music learners?
Learning to play music brings so much benefit to the student; it opens the door to the appreciation of and search for beauty, as well as providing opportunities for self-development and growth. The AMEB is a vital institution for music education in Australia, providing learners with a structured program to develop their skills on an instrument while also offering the freedom to personalise how they approach their musical journey.

Why should developing musicians attend a Sound Insights event?
While the criteria that the AMEB uses to help students grow and develop their music is clearly outlined in the syllabus, I believe that it would be beneficial to hear and see how that translates practically to actual sounds and movements on an instrument. Additionally, receiving an insight into what examiners listen for should be helpful for those seeking to gain an understanding of how to improve their exam performance and results.

You can see Markiyan in action in the first of the AMEB Sound Insights events at Melbourne Recital Centre in February 2025.

Visit melbournerecital.com.au/ameb to find out more.