Patron Piers Lane AO
2026 Competition
Welcoming solo instrumentalists to Australia's premier music competition for young people, now in it's 35th year
REGIONAL for residents of the City of Greater Geelong and environs, currently 18 or under and enrolled in Years 7 to 12
Please note: Applications are capped at 30 entries
NATIONAL for Australian citizens 17 to 25 years of age
Watch this page for APPLY buttons!
In a nutshell... (also see our hints from previous Adjudicators and Finalists)
REGIONAL
Regional Applicants will perform a 6 minute live audition consisting of a piece or pieces of the Applicant’s own choice. Finalists will then perform a 6 to10 minute program of choice before a Panel of Adjudicators and an audience. This program may be, but is not required to be, the same as that performed for the audition. Concerto movements, excerpts and arrangements of pieces for other instruments are allowed. Remember, winning is a bonus, but competing is the real value.
NATIONAL
National Applicants will submit, via YouTube, an audition video not exceeding 30 minutes. At least 2 of the following periods must be represented in the submission: Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern. Subject to this requirement, the program will consist of works of the Applicant’s own choice. Concerto movements, excerpts and arrangements of pieces for other instruments are allowed.
National Finalists will each present a program of their own choice, not exceeding 30 minutes, in live performance. It is acceptable, but not a requirement, for the content to be the same as that submitted in the audition video. Our Adjudicators will expect that you are well on the way to mastering your instrument, so your performance will be judged not only on technique but also on content, presentation and communication. We know you can play well... here is your chance to show us how good you really are!
National Winner Scholarship Agreement
Audition submission YouTube help
National Finalists should also note they may receive an invitation to perform with the Geelong Symphony Orchestra during the next concert season and also at the Athenaeum Club in Melbourne.