The Young Mannheim Symphonists 2026 VIC State Academy will take place in Melbourne in September–October 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, 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.
The Academy is open to musicians aged 23 and under from all Australian states and territories. This is a non-residential course (accommodation not provided).
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 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 Melbourne.
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 VIC State Academy
conducted from the keyboard by Neal Peres Da Costa and directed by Nicole van Bruggen
Tuesday 29 September – Saturday 3 October 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)
“The most important part of orchestra playing I have learnt is communication. This can be done through eye contact, movement, breathing and listening. Playing without a conductor in a different set-up allowed me to develop these abilities.”
“The workshops especially were inspiring. Learning the history and using various facial expressions and movements to convey storytelling is extremely different from anything I’ve ever done.”
“I wanted to learn more about what HIP is and just try something new and different to other music programs. Definitely got to do this, have been introduced to so many new ideas and approaches, it was an amazing week!”
“Overall, I have gained more knowledge on historically informed performances, and other orchestra skills which other programs don’t teach.”
— YMS 2023 VIC participants
2023 VIC STATE ACADEMY PHOTO ALBUM
Photos: Hikari Photography
WATCH THE 2024 NATIONAL ACADEMY CONCERT AT MELBOURNE GRAMMAR SCHOOL
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