Cameron DuRieu and Ben Neldner
In June 2019, Cam and Ben took over the reins as Co-MDs. We are thrilled with the new energy, approach and positivity they have brought to AVU.
Cameron DuRieu
Coming from a very musical family, Cameron has been singing and performing for most of his life. His grandmother, Doris was a professional opera singer and his grandfather, Verdon was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his contribution to music and the community in 1992 - for conducting, composing and arranging.
Starting in primary school, Cam was drawn to choirs and musical groups, singing in a number of ensembles throughout his younger years. In 2006, he and three friends from high school formed ‘The Fishbowl Boys’ and sang Barbershop style songs in 4 part harmony. From 2006 to 2014, The Fishbowl Boys performed in all Australian States, Canada and twice in the USA. They recorded two CDs and had countless adventures throughout this time.
Having founded Adelaide Vocal Union in 2015, Cam is now in a Musical Director role to share his vocal and performance knowledge with the group.
Ben Neldner
Ben Neldner is a passionate singer. He has sung with a wide range of barbershop quartets, a cappella groups and choirs. He trained with Patrick Power of the Elder Conservatorium, Adelaide University and his tastes and experience could be described as eclectic, ranging from opera to jazz.
While at high school Ben had the thrill of singing lead in the vocal ensemble at the Generations of Jazz Festival - with the backing of a big swing band. Later he had the opportunity to sing and compete with the successful barbershop quartet ‘Skyline’ in Nashville and more recently sang with the Tokyo Barbers and the Lockers while in Japan.
He has successfully arranged songs for both choruses and quartets and is working to develop his skills as a Musical Director.
Ben has been a member of Adelaide Vocal Union almost from its beginning and his goal is to guide members to becoming greater singers and musicians.
After a difficult time for AVU in earlier 2019, our two new Co-MDs supported the chorus to have a successful performance at the 2019 BHA Festival in Hobart where we won the Best Small Chorus of Australia, a trophy the chorus has won four times now.
