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We're proud to announce the return of the Young Musician of the Year Award 2026, in partnership with Perth Symphony Orchestra.
One of Western Australia's most exciting opportunities for emerging musicians, the competition is open to classically trained performers aged 14–23 across five categories: Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwind and Piano.
More than a competition, the Young Musician of the Year Award is a launchpad for the next generation of musical talent. Whether you're refining your craft, building performance experience or looking for an opportunity to showcase your skills on stage, this is your chance to take the spotlight.
Category winners will progress to the prestigious Grand Final, where one outstanding musician will be crowned the City of Joondalup Young Musician of the Year 2026. The overall winner will earn the opportunity to perform live with Perth Symphony Orchestra in 2027 and share in a $5,000 prize pool.
If you're aged 14–23, passionate about music and ready to take your performance to the next level, we'd love to hear from you.
Applications open Saturday 1 August and close Monday 31 August.
Finalists will perform live at Redmond Theatre before a panel of highly respected judges from Western Australia's music community, all competing for a place in the Grand Final and the chance to be named Young Musician of the Year.
Key dates
- applications open: Saturday 1 August at perthsymphony.com
- applications close: Monday 31 August
- finalists notified: Friday 18 September
- semi final: Saturday 17 October
- grand final: Sunday 25 October.
Find out more and enter
Think you've got what it takes? Head to the competition page at perthsymphony.com to register your interest, review the entry requirements, FAQs and competition terms and conditions.
Applications will be open from Saturday 1 August to Monday 31 August 2026.