Lerida Delbridge

“I loved the camaraderie at Yarra. There was a sense that if you had a go at anything, you’d be embraced and supported”

Musical passion, mixed with self-belief and resilience has inspired this Yarra Old Grammarian to reach musical heights. Lerida Delbridge grew up on a 65-acre property in Kangaroo Ground, complete with cows, sheep, dogs and a pet goat. After graduating from Yarra Valley Grammar, Lerida swapped her country lifestyle for city living to pursue a career and passion as a musician.

After completing studies in music at the University of Melbourne Lerida's talents and hard work took her to Sydney, where she plays violin with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and is the Assistant Concert Master.

Lerida's parents encouraged her to study music from the age of three, when she began learning the violin. Excelling at music, she was fast-tracked through her music studies when she joined Yarra in Year 10. Teachers also helped Lerida to join a Melbourne University program for high achieving students.

"I started doing my Bachelor of Music when I was in Year 11. That was an extraordinary thing that Yarra did for me because it put me ahead of the curve. It pushed me and helped me become a better player."

The School's motto, Levavi Oculos (lift up my eyes) has also remained with Lerida during challenging moments in her professional life.

"I've had successes and knocks, recalling Yarra's motto has helped me lift up my eyes, put things in perspective and get on with things when something doesn't go my way. It reminds me that when you look forward, the future is full of amazing possibilities."

Lerida's story shows how our unique and celebrated Yarra Spirit continues well past your last days at Yarra.