AUDITIONS NOW OPEN
Young Mannheim Symphonists is Australia’s only national youth orchestra for Historically Informed Performance (HIP).
The Young Mannheim Symphonists 2027 National Academy will be held in Brisbane from Tuesday 30 March – Sunday 4 April, co-directed by Chad Kelly and Nicole van Bruggen.
ABOUT THE COURSE
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), and concluding with public concerts.
In 2027, the Academy will be conducted by Chad Kelly, and will feature Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No.9 with massed choirs and emerging vocal soloists.
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 musical heritage within its historical context, and inspiring and enlightening the next generation of musicians.
WHO CAN AUDITION: Orchestral musicians aged 13–23 (at 1 Jan 2027) from all Australian states and territories and New Zealand are invited to audition.
PLAYING LEVEL: Performance standards differ for each instrument, but a minimum of AMEB Grade 6–8 level or equivalent is recommended. Vocal soloists will be at emerging professional level.
COST: $900 (instrumentalists). Participants must arrange own travel to Brisbane. Bursaries are available for accepted applicants with demonstrated financial need – apply for a bursary here.
Young Mannheim Symphonists
2027 National Academy
Tuesday 30 March – Sunday 4 April 2027
Brisbane
PROGRAM
Conducted by Chad Kelly
Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770–1827) Symphony No.9 in D minor, Op.125 'Choral' (1822–24)
FACULTY
Chad Kelly, Conductor & Co-Director
Nicole van Bruggen, Clarinet & Co-Director
More faculty, soloists and guest presenters coming soon!
2027 AUDITION TIMELINE
Monday 31 August 2026 – Applications/auditions open
Sunday 25 October 2026 – Applications/auditions close at midnight
Thursday 19 November 2026 – Acceptance announcements
Waitlist or special consideration applications accepted after deadlines – contact operations@arco.org.au
HOW TO APPLY & AUDITION
Complete the application form.
Pay the $20 audition fee to receive the audition upload link from Humanitix. Keep this safe!
Find the audition excerpts and requirements.
Upload your video audition by 11:55pm Sunday 25 October.