Musica Viva Australia has opened entries for Strike A Chord 2026, inviting school-aged musicians across the country to take part in the national chamber music competition.
Young performers are encouraged to form ensembles of three to eight players and submit a video recording of a broadly classical performance by 28 May 2026. The competition is open to any combination of instruments or voices, offering opportunities for students at all levels of experience.
Strike A Chord features two sections. The Foundation Section, for students at approximately AMEB Grade 4 and below, is free to enter. The Championship Section, for those at approximately AMEB Grade 5 and above, costs $15 per player. Cash prizes are awarded in both categories.
Twelve groups from the Championship Section will be selected to perform live at the National Final at Melbourne Recital Centre on 29 August 2026, providing advanced students with a high-profile performance opportunity.
Hear what previous participants, teachers, parents have to say about the Strike A Chord program.
Artistic Director Wilma Smith said the competition aims to be inclusive and inspiring for all young musicians.
“It’s not just for the groups that make the finals and win the big prizes, or those who might go on to become professional musicians. Strike A Chord is for everybody who plays an instrument. And we hope that, one day, that will be every child in Australia.”
Beyond competition, Strike A Chord is designed to support student learning and collaboration. All entrants submit recorded performances, and the initiative offers educational pathways, expert feedback and performance opportunities for participants nationwide.
In 2026, Musica Viva Australia has already delivered Strike A Chord workshops in collaboration with Monash University in Melbourne and the Australian National University Community Music Centre in Canberra, with a further workshop scheduled with the Canberra Youth Orchestra.
The program also includes a free national coaching initiative, connecting participating groups with a Musica Viva-affiliated artist for a private one-hour session. A total of 67 coaching sessions will be delivered this year.
Strike A Chord is supported by a range of partners, including the Hansen Little Foundation as principal partner, along with Melbourne Recital Centre, 3MBS and the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School. Additional support is provided by Monash University and several philanthropic organisations, helping to expand access to performance and development opportunities for young musicians.
Key dates for the 2026 competition include:
- 1 May 2026 – Entries open
- 28 May 2026 – Entries close
- 24 June 2026 – Finalists and winners announced
- 29 August 2026 – National Final in Melbourne
Strike A Chord is a national initiative aimed at encouraging students to make music together, from newcomers through to experienced performers.
For more information or to enter, visit musicaviva.com.au/strikeachord.
