Helen Brinkman seamlessly integrates her roles as a baroque cellist, producer, and arts manager to cultivate a thriving baroque music scene in New Zealand. A graduate of Victoria University of Wellington, Helen holds an honours degree in both baroque and modern cello performance. Her passion for baroque music led her to further studies with renowned cellist Jaap ter Linden, culminating in a postgraduate diploma at the Royal Conservatorium in The Hague, The Netherlands.
Having co-founded NZ Barok alongside Graham McPhail in 2004, Helen has been the driving force as the principal manager and producer of the orchestra. Her musical contributions extend beyond the orchestra, as she has played continuo for and performed with leading soloists, music ensembles, and choirs both in New Zealand and internationally.
In addition to her performing career, Helen is dedicated to music education, having worked as a cello tutor (Associate – IRMTNZ) for the Tironui Music Trust for 5 years, and currently for Hobsonville School and her private studio. She further contributes to the community as a Teacher Aide/Library Manager for Whenuapai School in West Auckland.
