Donald Hazelwood AO OBE (1930–2025)
Donald Hazelwood AO OBE (1930–2025)
Our school proudly honours the life and legacy of distinguished alumnus Donald Hazelwood, one of Australia’s most respected classical musicians and long-serving Concertmaster of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Born in 1930 in rural New South Wales, Donald Hazelwood began learning the violin at the age of four. His early musical talent was recognised through regional performances and competitions, which led to a scholarship to Albury Grammar School. He later studied at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, where he refined the skills that would underpin a remarkable professional career.
Hazelwood joined the Sydney Symphony Orchestra in 1952 as a second violinist under conductor Eugene Goossens. In 1965, he was appointed co-concertmaster alongside Robert Miller, and soon after became sole Concertmaster.
He held this position for 33 years, retiring in 1998. During this time, he played a central role in shaping the orchestra’s artistic identity and guiding it through significant milestones, including major international tours and the cultural era surrounding the opening of the Sydney Opera House.
From 1987, he shared concertmaster responsibilities with Dene Olding until his retirement. In addition to his orchestral leadership, Hazelwood maintained an active international and chamber music career. He:
- Performed as soloist and guest musician with orchestras worldwide, including the Spokane Symphony Orchestra
- Participated in the World Philharmonic Orchestra in Stockholm (1985)
- Led the Austral String Quartet, touring internationally
- Performed extensively with the Hazelwood Trio alongside pianist Rachel Valler and clarinettist Anne Menzies
- Worked closely with composers and artists such as Peter Sculthorpe and Barry Conyngham
He also contributed significantly to music education, including his leadership and mentorship roles within the Australian Youth Orchestra National Music Camp, where he supported the development of young musicians. Donald Hazelwood’s distinguished service to music was recognised nationally and internationally. His honours include:
- Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), 1976
- Officer of the Order of Australia (AO), 1988
- Sir Bernard Heinze Memorial Award, for outstanding contribution to music in Australia
Donald Hazelwood was married to clarinettist Anne Menzies, with whom he shared both family life and musical collaboration. Their daughter, Jane Hazelwood, is a violist, continuing the family’s musical tradition. Following Anne’s passing, he later married Helen Phillips in 2000.
He performed on a historic 1716 Giovanni Battista Grancino violin, reflecting his lifelong connection to classical tradition and craftsmanship.
Donald Hazelwood passed away in Sydney on 8 March 2025 at the age of 95. He is remembered as a musician of exceptional integrity, artistry, and leadership.
His legacy endures through the generations of musicians he mentored, the institutions he helped shape, and his outstanding contribution to Australia’s cultural life.
