ROUND 2 Auditions now open for state academies!

We are thrilled to present the Young Mannheim Symphonists youth orchestra program again in Sydney in 2025, continuing to provide young New South Wales musicians with the opportunity to be part of our unique youth orchestra program, co-directed by Rachael Beesley and Nicole van Bruggen.

At the 2025 NSW State Academy, the orchestra will be conducted by Rachael Beesley. Successful applicants explore Classical and Romantic masterpieces during four days of workshops, tutorials and orchestral rehearsals. The 2025 NSW State Academy culminates in a public concert in which the Young Mannheim Symphonists perform the repertoire they prepare throughout the week. The Academy and concert will take place at SCEGGS Darlinghurst.

The Young Mannheim Symphonists directors and tutors are principal musicians of the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra – professional musicians who specialise in historically informed performance on period instruments. Their knowledge of musical styles, articulations, and embellishments comes from years of experience performing; reading treatises and studying scores; experimenting with instruments and interpretations; and sharing with their peers and their students. They are passionate about understanding our musical heritage in the context in which it was created, and they are even more passionate about inspiring and enlightening others.

Young musicians aged 13-23 from all states and territories may apply. This course is non-residential; accommodation is not provided. Fee: $450 (bursaries available for demonstrated need - apply here.)

INSTRUMENTS: oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, violin viola, double bass.
WHO: Secondary/tertiary students aged 13-23
LEVEL: No experience on period instruments is necessary, though participants will be encouraged to experiment with gut strings/natural brass/historical winds. Recommended minimum AMEB levels: clarinet/oboe - Grade 7; bassoon/horn/ timpani - Grade 5; strings – Grade 6.
DEADLINE: 30 March.

HOW TO APPLY:

Questions? Email operations@arco.org.au

2025 APPLICATION DEADLINES:

  • Sunday 15 September - Applications open

  • Sunday 27 October – Round 1 applications close at midnight

  • Monday 3 February – Round 2 applications open for State Academies (select instruments)

  • Sunday 30 April – Round 2 applications close at midnight

  • Waitlist applications accepted after deadlines - contact operations@arco.org.au

ACCEPTANCE ANNOUNCEMENTS:

  • Monday 25 November – Round 1 all Academies

  • Monday 28 April – Round 2 State Academies

Young Mannheim Symphonists
2025 NSW State Academy
co-directed by Rachael Beesley and Nicole van Bruggen

Tuesday 8 – Saturday 12 July 2025

PROGRAM
Conducted by Rachael Beesley

JOSEPH HAYDN
Symphony No.103 in E flat major ‘Drumroll’

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN
Symphony No.1 in C major, Op.21

Held at SCEGGS Darlinghurst.

FACULTY

Rachael Beesley, Conductor, Strings
Nicole van Bruggen, Woodwind
Marlane Bennie & Ben Castle, Violin
Darrin McCann, Viola
Kim Worley, Cello
Pippa Macmillan, Double Bass
Leanne Sullivan, Trumpet
Announcing more faculty soon!

“Unparallelled levels of communication and ensemble playing.” - YMS 2024 NSW participant

“The community feel of the camp was unlike any camp my daughter has done before. It really warmed her heart to know this existed.” - YMS 2024 NSW parent

“There’s so much more focus on individuality and drawing expression out of the music. Also a fantastic emphasis on communication rather than a focus on the conductor.” - YMS 2024 NSW participant

YMS COMPARISON CHART

You can apply and come to both National and State Academies!
But if you have to choose, here’s a comparison.

NATIONAL ACADEMY:

  • Residential (incl. meals, accommodation)

  • 6 days, 2-3 sessions per day plus social activities

  • Recommended age 15-23 (younger may apply)

  • Same learning outcomes & faculty expertise

  • Excellent playing level (but more competitive)

  • Repertoire: Symphonic PLUS chamber music

  • Open to all Australian and New Zealand residents (must arrange own travel)

  • Cost: $860

STATE ACADEMIES:

  • Daytime only

  • 5 days, 2 sessions per day

  • Recommended age 15-23 (younger may apply)

  • Same learning outcomes & faculty expertise

  • Excellent playing level

  • Repertoire: Symphonic

  • Open to all Australian residents (must arrange own travel and source own accommodation)

  • Cost: $450