Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra is passionately committed to education programs. We offer a unique combination of flexible courses and projects for students and community musicians, development opportunities for professional musicians and teachers, and enlightening presentations around Australia and abroad.

We believe that the best way to deepen the appreciation, understanding and experience of Classical and Romantic repertoire in Australia is to share our knowledge and passion in a way which is inspiring, empowering, challenging and relevant to contemporary music-making. Explore our education programs here, or contact the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra’s General Manager, Nicole van Bruggen via email or on 0452 514 730 to ask about programs.

YOUng mannheim symphonists

The Young Mannheim Symphonists program is designed to give school and tertiary musicians the opportunity to discover for themselves the magic of approaching music with appropriate performance style. Over a week-long Academy at state or national level, they are led through great musical masterpieces. Exposed to the knowledge and perception of experienced professional HIP musicians, they are inspired by how the music comes to life, and empowered to begin making informed musical decisions on their own. 

Co-directed by Rachael Beesley and Nicole van Bruggen, YMS programs are held in cities around Australia, and are open to young musicians aged 23 and under via annual auditions.

Applications for YMS 2026 are now closed. Click to explore all programs.

voyage of musical discovery

The Voyage of Musical Discovery is equal parts concert and demonstration. Established and designed by the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra and its founding artistic director and world-renowned educator, the late Richard Gill, it pairs new Australian music alongside earlier Classical and Romantic works, sometimes with a guest artist or ensemble. Listeners are shown the many compositional links and similarities in structure, tonality, rhythmic function, orchestration and modes of expression between old and new music.

Voyage programs occur throughout the year across Australia, and are open to school groups and the general public.

YMS Emerging artists, ARCO FELLOWS & internships

The Young Mannheim Symphonists Emerging Artists and ARCO Fellows program is a learning opportunity and platform from which young aspiring musicians can step into the professional industry. Opportunities for such invaluable professional development are offered to these promising young HIP musicians as appropriate.

Our internships are offered on an individual basis, often in partnership with other institutions, and allow emerging musicians and arts professionals to assist with our operations and communications and develop valuable skillsets.

outreach education & YMS Workshops

Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra offers a unique combination of YMS HIP Workshops, courses and projects for school- and tertiary-level students, youth and community orchestras, professional musicians and music teachers. We also offer enlightening presentations in tandem with concerts.

We are passionate about expanding education and professional development to major cities and regional towns across Australia, and work with partners to create uniquely tailored experiences.