Violinist Kristian Winther is known for his fearless approach to classical music, his passion for contemporary works, and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of musicians.

As he prepares to take part in the Easter long weekend Megalong Music Festival in the Blue Mountains, he talks to Limelight on his own journey, the ongoing importance of chamber music, and the uncertain future of the classical music industry.

Kristian Winther. Photo © Anthony Browell.

A violin vocation 

For Winther, music was never a choice – it was an inevitability. Born into a family of pianists, he forged a new path and chose the violin at the age of four.

At 16, he joined the Australian National Academy of Music, where he was immersed in a world of diverse styles and contemporary compositions, and it was from his colleagues at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School that he developed an appreciation for jazz. Today, he says, he very rarely repeats repertoire. “There’s always something new to play, a never-ending series of composers to discover.”

Chamber music as community and collaboration

“Playing solo can be lonely,” Winther says. “Chamber music is different – it’s...