studied violin at the Royal Conservatory of Music receiving his ARCT diploma with First Class Honours. He continued his studies at the University of Toronto and the Utrechts Conservatorium in Holland. He performed regularly with the Toronto Symphony for 16 seasons and was active for 2 decades in the recording studio and freelance music scene in Toronto. His long list of affiliations includes the Canadian Opera Company, National Ballet, Kitchener Symphony, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Symphony Nova Scotia. His varied career has taken him from chamber music to musical theatre where he was Concertmaster for shows like Ragtime, ShowBoat and Sunset Blvd. 

Other ventures have included recordings and concerts with a wide range of musical styles and performers such as Ray Charles, Liza Minelli, Bobby Vinton, Peter Gabriel, Donny Osmond, Andrea Bocelli, Blue Rodeo, and Josh Grobin to name a few. 

David has always been fascinated with string instrument making, bow making, setup and repairs.  Starting at an early age, he took every opportunity to sit at the luthier’s bench, observe and ask questions.  He started formal studies at the University of New Hampshire’s acclaimed Violin Craftsmanship Institute in 2015 and continues taking courses and developing his skills there every year.

In addition to teaching RCM violin, viola, and cello, Mr. McFadden is a certified Suzuki teacher.  He has 25 years of experience teaching and his students have ranged from 2 1/2 years of age to 87! He is passionate about teaching the next generation and sharing the wealth of benefits that come from music.  

Mr. McFadden is actively involved in music ministry with his wife Julie in the local church and beyond.  They are the music directors of the Muskoka Bible Center; Canada's largest Christian retreat and conference centre.  David is the Concertmaster of the Huronia Symphony and teaches violin, viola and cello at the Bravura House Music Academy in Midhurst. 

David and Julie are proud parents of 2 teenagers, Christopher (violin) and Sarah (piano and cello).  The McFadden family enjoys performing together whenever they can.