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 2025, the orchestra will once again 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).

Participants aged 23 and under from all states and territories and New Zealand may apply. Cost: $880.

2026 APPLICATION DEADLINES:

  • Monday 25 August - Applications open, audition excerpts available

  • Sunday 12 October – Deadline: applications close at midnight

ACCEPTANCE ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • Monday 10 November – All Academies

Photos: Ken Nakanishi/Hikari Photography

Young Mannheim Symphonists
2026 National Academy

Monday 6 – Saturday 11 July 2026
Sydney

PROGRAM & VENUE tba
Conducted by Rachael Beesley

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.”

WATCH THE YMS 2023 NATIONAL ACADEMY CONCERT!

YMS COMPARISON CHART

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

NATIONAL ACADEMY:

  • Residential (incl. meals, accommodation)

  • 6 days, 2-3 sessions per day plus social activities

  • Same learning outcomes & faculty expertise

  • Excellent playing level (but more competitive)

  • Repertoire: Symphonic PLUS chamber music

  • Open to all Australian and New Zealand residents (must arrange own travel to Sydney)

  • Cost: $880

STATE ACADEMIES:

  • Daytime only

  • 5 days, 2 sessions per day

  • Same learning outcomes & faculty expertise

  • Excellent playing level

  • Repertoire: Symphonic

  • Open to all Australian residents (must arrange own travel and source own accommodation)

  • Cost: $460