Marian Heckenberg graduated with a Masters of Music from the University of Southern California where she studied with Paul Ellison and Denis Trembly, previously graduating from The University of Qld with a Bachelor of Music (first class honours). While living in Los Angeles she gained valuable experience in recording studios such as Capitol Records and as a freelance orchestral musician. Since her return to Australia, Marian has performed with ASO, MSO, OV, QSO, TSO and WASO. When she is not performing Marian is dedicated to her private students and the emerging  student bassists at the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University. She is also in demand as a double bass educator for multi instrumental string teachers wishing to expand their knowledge of the double bass. Her sessions have been featured at EdQ professional development seminars and AUSTA conferences.  Marian is also energised by giving performing workshops for Bassworks (Adelaide), QYO, AYO (Young Symphonists),  MOST camp and for Camerata’s education programs that reach students all over the state of QLD. To further extend her skills, in 2009 Marian lived in Paris, studying with renowned double bass soloist François Rabbath. Marian has the privilege of playing principal double bass in Brisbane-based, Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra. Working with Camerata enriches her life by providing the opportunity to perform solos as well as unique projects like creating a live soundtrack for Russian silent film ‘Battleship Potemkin’ and accompanying bass virtuoso Edgar Meyer. In 2019 Marian co-founded and directed the highly successful Big Brisbane Bass Day, an event that brought bass enthusiasts and professionals from all over Qld together for a day of lessons and music making.