Craig Allister Young is an Australian cellist and composer with a richly varied career spanning orchestral performance, composition, musical theatre, ballet, choral music and community arts.
He has been a member of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra since 1991, where he is known not only for his musicianship as a cellist, but also for his creative contributions as a composer and arranger.
As a performer, Craig has appeared extensively with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra in symphonic, chamber and outreach programs, as well as in cabaret, theatre and cross-genre ensembles. His performance career reflects a deep commitment to versatility, collaboration and audience connection.
Craig’s compositional output is broad and distinctive, ranging from large-scale orchestral works to musical theatre, children’s music and choral repertoire. His orchestral music and arrangements form part of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s library, and his commissioned works include a fanfare written for the orchestra’s 75th anniversary celebrations. He has also orchestrated multiple ballets for Queensland Ballet, often performing and directing from the cello.
In musical theatre and song-based work, Craig has written music and lyrics for original productions including Singing Flat (a murder-mystery musical) and Daisy May, the Impossibly Cool Cat, alongside numerous works for community choirs and educational settings. His writing is characterised by strong storytelling, accessibility and a clear understanding of performers at all levels.
Beyond composing and performing, Craig is an experienced musical director, arranger and mentor. He is co-producer and musical director of Brisbane Sings, one of Brisbane’s largest annual choral events, and a long-standing mentor with the QSO Compose program, supporting emerging composers through workshops and regional tours.
Craig has also written music for major public events, commercial productions and media projects, including performances associated with the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. His work consistently reflects a belief in music as both a professional art form and a powerful community-building force.
Whether on stage, in the pit, at the desk or in the classroom, Craig Allister Young brings curiosity, generosity and craftsmanship to every project.