Strike A Chord 2027
What is Strike A Chord?
Strike A Chord is Musica Viva Australia’s national chamber music competition for school-age musicians, celebrating the talent, commitment and creativity of Australia’s next generation of chamber musicians.
Whether you’re taking your first steps in ensemble playing or ready to challenge yourself at an advanced level, Strike A Chord offers an opportunity to develop your musicianship, share your music and connect with other young performers.
In 2027, the competition introduces a new Showcase Section, joining Foundation and Championship to create three sections for musicians at different stages of their development.
Every group receives written feedback from the judges and a certificate recognising their participation and achievement, because every performance is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Key Dates
Applications and program dates
- Mon 22 February: Coaching Program and Monash Strike A Chord Workshop applications open
- Fri 5 March: Monash Strike A Chord Workshop applications close
- Fri 19 March: Coaching Program applications close
- Sat 10 – Sun 11 April: Monash Strike A Chord Workshop
- Mon 19 April – Fri 14 May: Coaching Program
Competition dates
- Mon 3 May: Competition entries open
- Fri 28 May: Competition entries close
- Mon 21 June: Championship finalists announced; first-round results for Foundation, Showcase and Championship sections announced
- Sat 28 August: Championship Section National Final
Start preparing your entry
Are you a teacher helping your students discover the joys of chamber music? Or a young musician ready to form a group with friends? Now is a great time to start forming your ensemble and exploring repertoire.
Full Rules and Regulations will be available from early 2027. Sign up for our eNews below and stay tuned for further announcements.
Foundation Section
For groups playing at approximately AMEB Grade 4 level or below. Foundation welcomes all repertoire, and doubling of parts is permitted, provided the music has at least three distinct lines or parts. It’s an accessible entry point for young musicians ready to experience the rewards of playing together.
- Playing level: AMEB Grade 4 or below, or equivalent
- Performance duration: Up to 5 minutes
- Repertoire: Classical repertoire is encouraged, including simpler arrangements, but all repertoire is welcome including popular music, musical theatre, movie themes and classical music from a range of cultures.
- Doubling of parts: Permitted, with at least three distinct lines or parts
Showcase Section (NEW)
A new opportunity for developing musicians to share their ensemble playing and take the next step in their musical journey.
- Playing level: Approximately AMEB Grade 5 to no higher than Grade 8, or equivalent
- Performance duration: 4–10 minutes
- Repertoire: Broadly classical in style, including classical music from a range of cultures
- Doubling of parts: Not permitted
Championship Section
For advanced young musicians ready to showcase their musicianship, interpretation and ensemble skills.
- Playing level: Approximately AMEB Certificate of Performance/A.Mus.A level and above, or equivalent
- Performance duration: 6–12 minutes
- Repertoire: Broadly classical in style, including classical music from a range of cultures
- Doubling of parts: Not permitted
Further eligibility and repertoire requirements will be outlined in the official Rules and Regulations, available from early 2027.
New prizes for 2027
Strike A Chord is introducing a new prize structure in 2027, with Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum certificates in each section, alongside a range of cash prizes.
More information about the prizes and judging criteria will be announced in early 2027.
Regardless of the section you enter, Strike A Chord is an opportunity to challenge yourself, learn from expert feedback and celebrate the experience of making music together.
Coaching Program
Free national coaching program for Strike A Chord entrants, pairing student chamber groups with professional mentors to develop ensemble skills, confidence and collaboration.
Monash Strike A Chord Workshop
Two-day Monash University workshop providing intensive ensemble coaching and collaboration opportunities for advanced Strike A Chord participants from across Australia.
Previous competitions
See what makes Strike A Chord such a powerful part of young musicians’ journeys. Explore past competitions and watch standout performances from previous years.
Resources
Everything participants need for Strike A Chord: how to enter, choose repertoire, record videos, understand rules, explore prizes and past winners.
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News & Stories
MORE INFORMATION
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Please email strikeachord@musicaviva.com.au if you have any enquiries.
Strike A Chord 2026
