Entries Open For Musica Viva Chamber Music Competition 2022 [APPLY]

Musica Viva Australia was founded in Sydney, Australia in 1945 by violist Richard Goldner. Since then, it has presented concerts nationally alongside quality education and artist development initiatives.

This year marks the third edition of their national chamber music competition, Strike A Chord — with prizes worth over $40,000, including cash and professional development awards given at various stages of the competition. 

The program encourages secondary school students across Australia to form ensembles between three and eight players in any vocal or instrumental combination.

Additionally, those students at the beginning of their musical paths are free to enter the Novice Section with cash prizes awarded by Yamaha Music Australia. 

The competition will see 12 of the chamber groups selected by the jury perform live at Melbourne Recital Center for the grand final on August 27, 2022. 

The first prize comprises a $5000 award, second prize is $4000, and third prize will be awarded at $2500. 

“Strike A Chord has had such a strong response from aspiring musicians around Australia as we launched it through two pandemic years,” said violinist Wilma Smith, Musica Viva’s artistic director of competitions. “We’re delighted that it will continue to inspire more young people to discover the joy and challenge of chamber music.” 

Entries will close on June 2, 2022 at 11:59pm AEST. To apply, click here.

Strike A Chord finalists plus Novice Section winners will be announced on June 22, 2022. More information can be found here.

Funded by the Victorian government, Musica Viva is hosting two major competitions. Alongside Strike A Chord 2022, the Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition will be held in 2023.

Strike A Chord is presented in partnership with Creative Victoria, Melbourne Recital Center, and the Australian National Academy of Music, with support from Major Partner Monash University.