Emma Dean is an internationally acclaimed musician, singer, creativity coach, performer, writer, composer, arranger, dreamer, and choir nerd based in Meanjin/Brisbane, Australia. 

With a passion for the magical space where music and storytelling collide, Emma has released over ten independent EPs, albums, and soundtracks. She has performed lead roles in theatre productions including Cabaret and The Tempest (Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre), and toured extensively across Australia and abroad — from Off-Broadway in New York to the Edinburgh Fringe — earning rave reviews for her original work.


In 2018, Emma was a featured soloist at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony, performing John Farnham’s iconic anthem You’re The Voice, accompanied by Brisbane’s renowned Voices of Birralee choir.

Emma’s musical contributions extend into the world of television, having composed, arranged and performed music for the Emmy Award-winning children’s series Bluey (including co-writing and performing the recent Christmas single – ‘I Don’t Have A Chimney’). She also serves as music director for Rainbow Bop — an all-girl puppet band that brings joy to young audiences.

Over the years, she has shared the stage with acclaimed artists including Macy Gray, Placebo, Jinkx Monsoon, Kate Miller-Heidke, Amanda Palmer and The Dresden Dolls, Jesca Hoop, and Camerata – Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra. Her talent has been recognised globally, with The New York Post naming her as one of their “Ten Artists To Watch".

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....A highlight of the fringe"
★★★★★ Ed Fringe Review

In 2020, Emma premiered Hot Mess Mama at Brisbane Festival – a bold, climate crisis-inspired work co-created with playwright Katherine Lyall-Watson and directed by Dan Evans. This was followed in 2021 by the release of Shape Of A Girl, a deeply personal and empowering album created with her brother and producer, Tony Dean. The album explores Emma’s experience with infertility, IVF, and loss, celebrating the resilience and unique stories of courageous women finding their shape in the world.

....Just sample her monster Broadway single “Sincerely Fearful,” which is 50% “Wicked” and 50% Tori Amos and 100% addictive, and you will find an unavoidable sound worthy of the repeat button."
– The New York Post 

Emma’s contributions to the arts have earned her numerous accolades, including the 2023 Griffith University Outstanding Young Alumni Award (Arts, Education and Law) and a coveted spot on Queensland’s ‘40 Under 40’ list of young leaders and visionaries.

Behind the scenes, Emma is a sought-after choral arranger, creating music for artists such as John Farnham, Kate Ceberano, Katie Noonan, Glenn Shorrock (Little River Band), and Voices of Birralee. She is a passionate advocate for the transformative power of group singing and proudly leads Cheep Trill, a vibrant community choir she considers her extended family.

Move over Rufus and Tori. You have company."
- Noel Mengel, Courier Mail

In 2025, Emma debuted her original work Community Choir: The Musical, featuring her beloved Cheep Trill choir — a cast of predominantly non-professional performers. The show, which was premiered at the Thomas Dixon Centre in West End as part of Brisbane Festival, was the fastest-selling show of the festival and received wide acclaim. Cheep Trill are crossing their fingers for a return season!
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Emma lives by the sea in Sandgate with her partner and musical collaborator, Lucas Clarke, their beautiful twins Tilda (Tilly) and Otis, and their mischievous Groodle, Charlie Dickens — a sock and undie enthusiast with a heart of gold.

Emma Dean is a jewel in the Australian Music World"
– Barbara Lowing​