Robert Davidson (composer)


Robert Davidson is an Australian composer. He holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Queensland, a Graduate Diploma in Music from Griffith University, and a PhD from the University of Queensland. He studied composition with Terry Riley in 1995 following studies with Philip Bračanin at the University of Queensland where he now teaches Modern techniques and composition. He lectures in music at the University of Queensland. He was a bassist in the Opera Australia, Sydney Symphony and Queensland Symphony orchestras.
Since 1996, Davidson has directed the post classical quintet Topology, with whom he plays double bass and occasionally sings. He is a member of the Topology Board and is responsible for the artistic direction of the organisation, including establishing and maintaining collaborative network relationships, composing music, performing and teaching in the education program. He also influences the strategic partnerships and direction of the group.
Davidson's works focus on relationships between speech and music, often including video elements. His works have been commissioned and performed by numerous international artists, such as the Brodsky Quartet, Australian String Quartet, Karin Schaupp, Southern Cross Soloists, Paul Dresher Ensemble, and Newspeak.