Thinking of applying to AYO in 2027? Prospective applicants and their families recently attended an online information session on Monday 18 May to find out more about the Australian Youth Orchestra programs in 2027 and how to apply.
Next year AYO will be performing from Singapore to Sydney – with applications for AYO’s 2027 orchestral and non-orchestral programs opening 1 June 2026. In this information session, hear from AYO CEO Kimbali Harding, AYO Director of Programs Warren Lenthall, AYO participant Maggie Wang and residential coordinator Georgia Gamble as they share their insights.
Topics for discussion included the AYO 2027 program overview, international touring opportunities in 2027 and what life is like on an AYO program.
Warren will also outlined how to apply for AYO’s 2027 programs, the key dates and tips on how to record the best audition or prepare a great portfolio. He also outlined the assessment process and answered questions.
Key Dates
1 June 2026 – Applications open (excerpt become available)
3 August 2026 – Registrations close (all programs)
11 August 2026 – String auditions due
13 August 2026 – All other auditions/portfolio submissions due
AYO nurtures gifted young musicians from school age through to pre-professional artists pursuing diverse careers across the music sector. In 2027, your journey could take you to stages in Singapore, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane or Adelaide, performing iconic works including Mahler 1 and Schumann’s Cello Concerto.
At AYO, talent is the only requirement. AYO’s generous scholarship program helps cover program fees and travel costs, and First Nations applicants receive a full waiver of the application fee. And from 1 June, audition excerpts can be downloaded free from the AYO website – removing barriers and opening doors to more young musicians than ever before.
This is your chance to join a talented community driven by ambition and a love for music. Learn from internationally renowned conductors and professional musicians. Perform at the highest level, form lifelong friendships and build networks that shape your future in music.
What’s new for 2027?
In March, a selected cohort of Australia’s leading school‑aged musicians will travel with AYO Symphonists to Singapore – launching a bold new international partnership and collaboration with the Singapore National Youth Orchestra and NZSO National Youth Orchestra.
Under the baton of German conductor Christoph Altstaedt, musicians will immerse themselves in an intensive, week-long residential program culminating in a landmark concert in Singapore.
AYO CEO Kimbali Harding said that for many participants, the experience comes at a pivotal moment. “Encountering a different orchestral culture at this stage helps our Symphonists expand their perspective on what a musical life can look like, while deepening the skills and musical curiosity they’ve already developed through their youth orchestra experiences in Australia. This program is about opening horizons for young Australian musicians – artistically, professionally and imaginatively.”
National Music Camp returns
For close to 80 years, National Music Camp in Adelaide has been a defining rite of passage for Australia’s young musicians — intense, transformative and unforgettable. In 2027, Lachlan Bramble (Adelaide Symphony Orchestra) steps in as Creative Director, curating a program that challenges, inspires and stretches musicians to new heights.
Participants will also work with internationally acclaimed conductors including Finnish star Emilia Hoving (Royal Philharmonic Orchestra), French maestro Alexandre Bloch, and Aiko Goto of the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
AYO Flagship Orchestra
Bringing together the finest musicians under 25 from around Australia, the AYO flagship orchestra performs two seasons each year. In 2027 the Australian Youth Orchestra takes the stage in Sydney and Brisbane led by Italian cellist and QSO Chief Conductor, Umberto Clerici, and New Zealand conductor, Tianyi Lu.
Beyond the orchestra
AYO’s vision extends beyond performance. Alongside its orchestral programs, AYO offers pathways for aspiring composers, arts administrators, sound engineers and music journalists aged up to 30. Non-orchestral programs include Media and Communication, Orchestral Management, Sound Production and Composition, supporting the next generation of music leaders across the industry.