The Young Mannheim Symphonists 2026 National Academy will be held in Sydney, co-directed by Rachael Beesley and Nicole van Bruggen. This residential course offers successful applicants five nights’ boarding, with days and evenings dedicated to workshops, tutorials and orchestral rehearsals focused on Historically Informed Performance (HIP).

The National Academy concludes with a public concert showcasing the Young Mannheim Symphonists as they perform the repertoire developed during the week.

In 2026, the orchestra will be conducted by Rachael Beesley, guiding participants through masterpieces of the Classical and Romantic eras. The Young Mannheim Symphonists will be mentored by tutors who are principal musicians of the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra – leading professionals in historically informed performance on period instruments. Their deep understanding of musical style, articulation, and ornamentation is informed by years of experience; performing, studying historical treatises and scores, experimenting with instruments and interpretation, and engaging in a vibrant exchange of ideas with colleagues and students. They are passionate about exploring our musical heritage within its historical context, and even more passionate about inspiring and enlightening the next generation of musicians.

Young Mannheim Symphonists is Australia’s only national youth orchestra for Historically Informed Performance (HIP).

WHO: Participants aged up to 23 from all Australian states and territories, as well as from New Zealand, are invited to apply for the National Academy.

PLAYING LEVEL: Performance standards differ for each instrument, but as a guide, a minimum of AMEB Grade 7–8 level or equivalent is recommended.

COST: $880. Interstate participants must arrange their own travel to and from Sydney.

BURSARIES: Available for applicants with demonstrated financial need – apply for a bursary here.

For further information, please contact: operations@arco.org.au

2026 APPLICATION DEADLINES:

• Monday 25 August 2025 – Applications open

• Sunday 26 October 2025 – Applications close at midnight

• Waitlist or special consideration applications accepted after deadlines – contact operations@arco.org.au

ACCEPTANCE ANNOUNCEMENTS:

• Monday 10 November 2025 – All Academies

Young Mannheim Symphonists
2026 National Academy

Monday 6 – Saturday 11 July 2026
Sydney

PROGRAM
Conducted by Rachael Beesley

CPE BACH (1714–1788)
March in D major ‘For The Ark’, Wq.188

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770–1827)
‘Egmont’ Overture in F minor, Op.84 (1787)

Josef SUK (1874–1935)
Serenade in E flat major, Op.6 for String Orchestra (1892)

Richard STRAUSS (1864–1949)
Serenade in E flat major, Op.7 (1881)

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770–1827)
Symphony No.3 in E flat major, Op. 55 ‘Eroica’ (1802-4)

FACULTY

Rachael Beesley, Conductor & Co-Director
Nicole van Bruggen, Clarinet & Co-Director
Faculty list coming soon!

What participants said about YMS 2024 National Academy:

“I’ve had the time of my life this week. I feel very, very lucky I got to be here. So many thank-yous for organising and delivering such a wonderful and valuable experience!”

“YMS is different from any other youth orchestra program. No other camp has the same historical perspective. It is incredible to be able to learn about these things in an environment where I can immediately apply them.”

“I keep coming to these programs because I love the way Rachael works - she’s easily one of the most creative conductors I’ve ever met, but also a joy to make music with.”

“I love how the research and style are always linked back to freshness, freedom of expression and meaningfulness as an ensemble.”

“Easily one of the best orchestral experiences I’ve ever had.”

YMS COMPARISON CHART

You can apply and come to both National and State Academies!
But if you have to choose, here’s a comparison.