Dr. Luis Fernando Madrid is a conductor defined by his deep scholarly insight and a vibrant, international podium presence. With a career spanning over 30 years and two continents, Dr. Madrid has established himself as a leading authority in both the Symphonic and Operatic repertoires, seamlessly blending the fiery traditions of his native Colombia with the refined academic rigour of the Australian musical landscape.

A specialist in the nuances of the Verismo era, Dr. Madrid’s artistry is informed by his doctoral research at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. His dissertation on the evolution of tempo and expression in Italian Opera provides him with a unique “insider’s” lens, allowing him to breathe fresh life into classic scores with historical authenticity and emotive power.

Dr. Madrid is a frequent guest on the international stage. In South America, he regularly leads Colombia’s most prestigious ensembles, including Opera de Colombia, the Orquesta Filarmónica de Bogotá and the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional de Colombia. In Australia, his baton has guided the Macquarie Towns Orchestra, UNSW Medical Orchestra, the Woollahra Philharmonic, Sydney Conservatorium of Music Symphony Orchestra and the Sydney Virtuosi Orchestra (SVO) an ensemble he founded to champion orchestral excellence.

Beyond the podium, Luis is a visionary educator. In 2014, he founded the Sydney Opera Scuola, a vital launchpad for emerging vocal talent. Whether mentoring the next generation in regional Australia or le ding masterclasses in Cartagena, his commitment to musical pedagogy is tireless. His contributions have been recognized with Colombia’s prestigious “Epifanio Garay” Medal. In 2025 Dr. Madrid was awarded the highest distinction on recognition by the Alcaldía Mayor de Cartagena de Indias for his outstanding conducting career, and multiple international scholarships from Colciencias and the University of Sydney.

Having studied under masters such as Imre Palló, Baldur Brönnimann, and Simon Carrington, Dr. Madrid continues to be a sought-after collaborator known for his precision, his warmth, and his unwavering dedication to the score.

Dr. Madrid’s repertoire spans the core symphonic canon to complex operatic scores, with a specialized focus on the expressive nuances of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Extensive focus on Puccini, Mascagni, and Leoncavallo, informed by doctoral research into historical performance practices. Curated programs for the Sydney Opera Scuola, focusing on Mozartian clarity and Bel Canto technique for emerging voices. Contemporary & Latin American: A dedicated advocate for Colombian and Latin American composers, bringing regional masterpieces to international audiences.