Bridget McCullough and Teresa Di Fava Awarded Helpmann Academy Elevate Mentorships
Congratulations to Elder Conservatorium alumni Bridget McCullough (viola) and Teresa Di Fava (contemporary voice), who were recently announced as recipients of the Helpmann Academy's 2025 Elevate Mentorship program!
Bridget McCullough is a classical violist who has just completed her Bachelor of Music Honours (Advanced) at the Elder Conservatorium of Music under the tutelage of Keith Crellin and Stephen King. Bridget will be mentored by Robert Ashworth (Principal Viola in the Auckland Philharmonia).
'I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity from Helpmann. I am looking forward to taking onboard feedback to improve my viola playing and support my preparation for professional orchestral auditions.'
– Bridget McCullough
Teresa Di Fava (Bachelor of Music – Popular Music, 2023) is a 23-year-old pop artist based in Tarntanya (Adelaide). Her latest 2025 single 'Let's Commit Arson' was dubbed 'a pocket rocket [of] Australian power pop' (Anika Luna, triple j) and named one of Rolling Stone AU's 'Best Australian Songs of the Week'. Teresa will be mentored by Leena Regan.
'I'm over the moon to be undertaking a 12-week mentorship program with Leena Regan – an incredibly talented and respected pillar of the Adelaide music scene. Having Helpmann's support in this mentorship will have an immeasurable impact on elevating my vocal ability and stagecraft, both of which are pivotal as I move into the next stage of my career.'
– Teresa Di Fava
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