John Painter, cellist, educator and founder of the Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO), has died in Canberra. He was 92.

His passing marks the end of an era for Australian classical music, where his vision helped shape the nation’s orchestral identity. 

John Painter. Image courtesy of ACO

Painter was born in Adelaide in 1932. Although he trained initially on piano, he ultimately found his lifelong voice through the cello, first at the Elder Conservatorium of Music in Adelaide, then at the NSW State Conservatorium of Music.

After supporting himself through his studies playing with the ABC Dance Band, the 18-year-old Painter returned to Adelaide to become Principal Cellist for the South Australian Symphony Orchestra. In 1952, he joined the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and served as Principal Cello from 1960.

In 1966, Painter founded the Sydney String Quartet. Then, in 1974 – determined to create a small, flexible ensemble with the highest standards – he formed the Australian Chamber Orchestra. Its first performance was on 21 November, 1975, in the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House and featured 12 young players. Painter played with the ensemble for a decade and was instrumental...