The Melbourne Musicians, founded by Frank Pam in 1975, comprises leading freelance players, including string teachers at Melbourne’s foremost private schools, and advanced students from institutions such as the Australian National Academy of Music.

The repertoire is very large, ranging from the 17th century to the present, including works by some Australians and some premieres. There is an emphasis on the best 18th century composers and the orchestra has earned a reputation for excellent performances of Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, Haydn and Mozart.