Meleia Richardson’s (’21) Music Journey: From The Sister Helen Orchestra Room to the Stage

Each year, Classics in the Cathedral is a magical evening celebrating the incredible talents of primary and secondary students in the St Margaret’s Music Program. This year, a performance from Old Girl Meleia Richardson (’21) was a highlight in the evening’s program. Mel recently completed her Bachelor of Music in Contemporary Voice at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Griffith University. For Mel, music was more than an extracurricular at St Margaret’s; it shaped her school experience and set the foundation for her future.

“I spent most of my spare time in the Sister Helen Orchestra Room and absolutely loved it,” she said. “I feel very lucky to have been part of a school that offered such a rich, diverse, and high-quality music program.”

Mel was involved in both auditioned and non-auditioned choirs, took private vocal lessons, and was lead singer of the school rock band. In Year 12, she studied Music and Music Extension, performed a lead role in the school musical (and had performed in two previous musicals in 2017 and 2019), and served as a Choral Captain and Prefect, combining her passion for music with leadership.

“More than anything, I just loved being part of the music community at Maggie’s,” she reflects. “It was such a supportive, inspiring environment where everyone genuinely encouraged each other. The teachers were phenomenal, so dedicated and always willing to help you reach your potential, whether that was through rehearsals, performances, or one-on-one mentoring.”

A highlight of her time at school was performing as Miss Honey in Matilda in her final year.

“It felt really special, not just because of the role, but because of what it represented.”

Before officially starting at St Margaret’s in Year 8, Mel had been cast in The Sound of Music, despite not knowing anyone yet.

“The other students, especially the senior girls, were so kind and welcoming. That stayed with me.”

Years later, stepping into a nurturing role like Miss Honey allowed Mel to return the favour.

“I found myself doing for the younger girls what those older students had done for me, encouraging them, helping them find confidence, and making sure they felt valued and seen.”

Mel's passion for music continued to grow throughout school, and in Year 12, she realised it was something she wanted to pursue seriously.

“Being involved in so many ensembles, musicals, and extension programs gave me a real taste of what it could look like to take music seriously, not just as a hobby, but as a pathway.”

She went on to study at the Queensland Conservatorium, where she was one of only eight pop vocalists in her cohort nationwide.

“It was a tight-knit, high-achieving environment,” she says. “At times it felt intimidating, but I learned to shift my mindset and focus on my own growth rather than comparison. Being surrounded by such talented and passionate people ultimately pushed me to raise my own standards.”

For Mel, one of the most rewarding aspects of her degree was the creative freedom.

“At school, I was constantly involved in ensembles and musicals, which I loved, but I didn’t have a lot of time to develop myself as a solo artist. At the Con, I had the opportunity to experiment with songwriting, build confidence in my sound, and explore who I was creatively.”

She was also surprised by how practical and broad the course was.

“I learned to use professional recording studios, produce and track vocals, and collaborate with musicians, composers, and producers across different genres. It opened my eyes to what the music industry actually looks like beyond performing.”

In 2025, Mel returned to perform at Classics in the Cathedral, an event she describes as one of her favourites from school. Singing On My Own and Defying Gravity in the cathedral space was, she says, a very meaningful experience.

“Johnny Ng accompanied me again, and having Brad King offer feedback during rehearsals really helped everything come together. Seeing familiar faces and being back in that space reminded me how supported I’ve felt, even after leaving school.”

Since completing her degree, Mel has focused on performance and recently signed with an agent as she works towards securing a professional contract as a vocalist on cruise ships. In the meantime, she’s continued performing at events, including an art gala in Cairns and the launch of St Margaret’s new arts precinct.

She’s also begun exploring music therapy after working in disability support roles.

“Seeing how deeply people connect with music has been incredibly inspiring. It’s shown me how powerful music can be beyond performance, as a tool for connection, communication, and healing.”

Reflecting on her journey, Mel says she’s discovered a lot about herself along the way.

“There’s a lot of waiting and uncertainty in this industry, but I’ve learned I’m resilient. I’ve become more confident in my abilities, and I’ve learned to back myself, both on stage and in the professional world.”

Her advice to current students or other Old Girls considering this path: “Go for it, but know it won’t always be straightforward. Stay open to different styles, say yes to opportunities, and don’t be afraid to explore paths beyond performing,” she says. “Studying music can take you in all kinds of directions, like music therapy, teaching, producing, or even organising festival gigs. It might take you somewhere you never expected.”

By Bronwyn Ninai (’16)