Biography

Max Kielly (he/him) is a Naarm-based composer and pianist, writing contemporary concert music that draws on a variety of influences from Jazz to Contemporary Minimalism and Pop. His music focuses on capturing and responding to specific experiences – memory, queer identity, and the projection of desire.  Studying at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (Bachelor of Music), Max has studied composition with Elliott Gyger, Melody Eötvös, and Robert Constable. He has written for and collaborated with many accomplished performers and ensembles both in Australia and internationally. Most recently, he has been commissioned by the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) for the 2026 ANAM Set, and his recent piano work ‘Paths of Amber’ was selected as the Australian set work for the World Piano Teachers Australia (WPTA) International Piano competition. His work ‘Someday I Will Find You’ has been commissioned by the Australian National Choral Association (ANCA) for the 2026 Choralfest, and later in the year he is participating in the 2026 Vienna Contemporary Composer’s Festival – writing for the Mivos Quartet. Recently, his works have been performed and commissioned by the International Trombone Festival, the World Saxophone Congress, Ensemble Liaison and the Melbourne Chamber Choir to name a few. Max’s work is self published, and select works are published by Matt Klohs.