The Young Mannheim Symphonists 2026 QLD State Academy will take place in Brisbane in September 2026, offering young musicians a unique opportunity to be part of this exceptional youth orchestra program. Conducted from the keyboard by Neal Peres Da Costa and directed by Nicole van Bruggen, the Academy promises an inspiring and immersive experience.
Over four intensive days of workshops, tutorials and orchestral rehearsals, participants will explore Classical and Romantic masterpieces. The Academy will culminate in a public concert at St Peters Lutheran College in Indooroopilly, showcasing the repertoire prepared throughout the week.
Musicians will be mentored by principal players of the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra – renowned specialists in historically informed performance on period instruments. With their wealth of expertise in style, articulation, ornamentation, and interpretation, they bring music to life with authenticity and passion. Just as importantly, they are dedicated to inspiring and guiding the next generation of musicians through their knowledge and artistry.
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.
PLAYING LEVEL: Performance standards differ for each instrument, but as a guide, a minimum of AMEB Grade 6–8 level or equivalent is recommended.
COST: $460. This is a non-residential program. Interstate participants are welcome but must arrange their own travel and accommodation in Brisbane.
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 QLD State Academy
conducted from the keyboard by Neal Peres Da Costa and directed by Nicole van Bruggen
Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 September 2026
PROGRAM
Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756–1791)
Symphony No.35 in D major ‘Haffner’ (1782)
Louis SPOHR (1784–1859)
Symphony No.2 in D minor Op.49 (1820)
Held at St Peters Lutheran College, Indooroopilly
“I wanted to learn more about HIP and I absolutely loved it. This program has been so amazing, better than any I've done. Definitely a unique experience.” - YMS 2024 QLD participant
“Every day my son came home and remarked that he learned A LOT! The concert on Saturday was the highlight of his musical journey thus far and he was buzzing with energy and enthusiasm for days! He was thrilled that he could perform with such talented young musicians and it was exciting and humbling for us to see him be part of a group performing at such high level.” - YMS 2024 QLD parent
“It was fantastic!” - YMS 2024 QLD participant
2024 QLD STATE ACADEMY PHOTO ALBUM
Photos: Wallis Media
WATCH THE YMS 2024 QLD STATE 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