Welcoming William Taber: Link Foundation Music Scholar 2025/26

We are delighted to welcome New Zealand double bassist William Taber as the Link Foundation Music Scholar for 2025/26, attending the prestigious year-long programme at Sinfonia Smith Square (SSS) in London.

Originally from Lake Ferry in South Wairarapa, William grew up in a musical family and discovered the double bass early on — an instrument that quickly became central to his musical life. He completed his Bachelor of Music at the New Zealand School of Music before continuing his studies at the Australian National Academy of Music.

William brings a wealth of orchestral experience, having performed with ensembles ranging from local community groups to the New Zealand Secondary Schools Orchestra and the New Zealand Youth Orchestra. He has also freelanced with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. A committed chamber musician, William counts as a particular highlight a programme of Strauss and Montgomery led by violinist David Kim.

After a period freelancing and teaching in New Zealand, William now begins an exciting new chapter in the UK as our 2025/26 SSS Scholar. During his year in London, he will explore new opportunities, broaden his artistic horizons, and become part of both the Link Foundation and Sinfonia Smith Square communities.