Ella Macens

Ella Macens is an Associate Lecturer in Composition at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, University of Sydney. Her work blends Latvian folk traditions with contemporary classical aesthetics, emphasizing intimacy and emotional resonance. She holds a Bachelor of Music (2015) and Master of Music (2023) from the Sydney Conservatorium, where her thesis explored singer-songwriter aesthetics in classical composition.

Research focuses on merging folk influences with orchestral techniques, and fostering creative spaces like the 'Tiny Home Concert' series. Teaching includes courses in Composition, Analysis, and Music History, such as MUSC1503 and CMPN1331.

Recent projects include a Wind Symphony for Japan/Korea tours, a 150th-anniversary piece for Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College, and Latvian choir commissions. Awards include the 2023 Australian Art Music Awards nomination and heritage-focused accolades from PBLA and LAAJ.

Her works span orchestral pieces like The Space Between Stars (2017) and chamber works such as The Brightest Star In The Night (2022), often reflecting her cultural roots and emotional storytelling.