Join the Orchestra
We welcome students who are ready to commit to the art of orchestral performance — and to discover what they are truly capable of.
Who Can Join?
The Mozart Philharmonic Orchestra is open to young musicians who play orchestral instruments and have reached at least a beginner-to-intermediate standard of proficiency. There is no upper age limit; however, most students enter the program between the ages of seven and eighteen.
Placement is determined by instrument level and musical readiness — not age alone. Students are assessed at the point of application and placed in one of three ensembles: the Preparatory Ensemble, the Chamber Ensemble, or the Symphony Ensemble. Movement between ensembles is based on achievement and is not constrained to a fixed timetable.
We particularly welcome students who have reached a plateau in their individual study and are ready for the transformative challenge of ensemble performance at a professional standard.
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Harp, Percussion
What's Included
Weekly Ensemble Rehearsals
A structured weekly rehearsal in your assigned ensemble, led by a professional conductor and section tutors. Full-year schedule provided upon enrolment.
Concert Season Participation
Participation in all scheduled public concerts throughout the year, including end-of-term performances at prominent Sydney venues.
Masterclass Access
Invitations to masterclasses and workshops with visiting professional artists, including specialist AMEB preparation sessions.
Festival Eligibility
Eligibility for representation at the Sydney International Music and Fine Arts Festival — one of the most prestigious youth music competitions in the Asia-Pacific.
Digital Program Library
Access to the MPO's digital library of scores, recordings, and study materials to support individual practice between rehearsals.
What to Bring
Students are expected to arrive at every rehearsal fully equipped and prepared. The following items are required at all times.
Program Fees
The Mozart Philharmonic Orchestra is committed to making orchestral education accessible to students who are ready for it, regardless of background. Fees for the 2026 season are structured by ensemble tier and are inclusive of all scheduled rehearsals, concert participation, and masterclass access.
Weekly rehearsal · Concert participation · Masterclass access
Weekly rehearsal · Concert participation · Masterclass access · AMEB prep workshops
Weekly rehearsal · Full concert season · Masterclasses · AMEB prep · Festival representation
Fees are confirmed prior to the start of each season. Sibling discounts and scholarship assistance may be available — please enquire directly.
Enrolment Application
Complete this form to register your interest for the 2026 season. We will be in contact within two business days to confirm placement and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
We do not require a formal audition in the traditional competitive sense. Instead, new students complete a short placement assessment — either in person or via a submitted video recording — so that we can place them in the ensemble that best suits their current level. The aim is not to exclude students but to ensure every student is challenged appropriately and placed where they can thrive.
Absolutely. The Preparatory Ensemble is specifically designed for students who are new to orchestral playing. It introduces the fundamentals of ensemble performance — following a conductor, tuning with others, reading orchestral parts — in a supportive and carefully paced environment. Many of our most accomplished Symphony Ensemble members began in the Preparatory Ensemble with no prior orchestral experience.
The core commitment is a single weekly rehearsal of between one and ninety minutes, depending on ensemble. Students are also expected to practise their parts individually during the week — the amount varies by level and the complexity of the repertoire being rehearsed. In the weeks surrounding concerts, additional dress rehearsal sessions may be scheduled.
Yes. Progression between ensembles is based on readiness, not a fixed calendar. Students who advance significantly during the year may be invited to move to a higher ensemble at any point. This decision is made collaboratively between the Musical Director, section tutors, and the student's family, and is always in the student's best musical interest.
We understand that families have busy lives. We ask that absences be notified to the orchestra administrator as early as possible. Students who miss rehearsals in the weeks immediately preceding a concert will be assessed individually as to whether they are prepared to perform. Consistent attendance is expected and is a condition of continued membership.
Participation in the SIMFA festival is not compulsory for all students, but it is strongly encouraged for those at the Chamber and Symphony Ensemble levels. The festival provides an invaluable performance experience in a competitive environment. Families will be given full information about registration requirements and timelines well in advance of each festival season.
We are committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent a talented and dedicated student from participating in the orchestra. A limited number of scholarship places and fee-assistance arrangements are available. Families wishing to discuss these options are encouraged to contact us directly and in confidence.