About
Leon started his musical life studying piano and cello with Shirley Plowright and Fran Firth in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, later taking up double bass under the tutelage of Paul Laszlo, and trumpet under Matthew Carter. In his primary school years he played cello with Penrith Youth Orchestra and double bass with Sydney Youth Orchestras, and was a Featured Artist (cello soloist) at the NSW Primary Proms. He also performed as a concerto soloist with Blue Mountains’ Orpheus Strings, on cello and double bass in subsequent years.
Leon is a double bass major (tutored by Andrew Meisel) at the Sydney Conservatorium High School, where he makes the most of playing in many different ensembles and styles on various instruments.
Leon’s AYO journey started as Principal Double Bass of Young Symphonists as soon as he was old enough to participate. In 2025 he was an Associate Principal in his first year at National Music Camp, and recipient of the Monty Wain Memorial Award. This year he is Principal Double Bass of Amadio Chamber Orchestra at NMC. He was thrilled to join AYO flagship on its international tour, and is looking forward immensely to performing around Australia this year.
Photography: Lisa Maree Williams
Leon Spikmans is the 2025 recipient of the Monty Wain Memorial Award.
