Monica Buckland

With 30 years’ professional conducting experience in Europe, the UK, USA and Australia, Monica brings the vision and passion to build on Bel a cappella’s reputation for high quality performances which explore the diversity of choral repertoire.

Monica’s extensive choral experience includes 16 years as musical director of ars cantata Zurich. She has directed many other professional and amateur choirs, led singing workshops and seminars and conducted several operas.

As an orchestral conductor Monica most recently conducted the Sydney Symphony Orchestra's concerts for schools. 

In Europe, she directed the orchestras at the TU Dresden and in 2019 was named ITV’s Woman of the Year for North-East England for her work with the New Tyneside Orchestra, before moving to Sydney where she is Musical Director of the Balmain Sinfonia. Monica has also held a number of university positions and is currently Adjunct Lecturer in the “performance lab” and conducting course at the University of NSW.

Monica says: "I am excited to be joining Bel a cappella and continuing the journey into wonderful, lesser-known repertoire. I've missed working regularly with voices and relish the opportunity to conduct such an ambitious and accomplished group of singers."

In 2023 Monica succeeded Anthony Pasquill who was Bel a cappella’s Musical Director for nearly 14 years. As he moves on to greater things we congratulate him for the amazing artistic direction he has given to Bel over the years. Thank you Anthony, we wish you every success in the future!