Strike A Chord 2026

Strike A Chord is Musica Viva Australia’s national chamber music program for school students. Centred on a national competition, with coaching sessions, workshops and opportunities for players of every level, it fosters a love of chamber music and the joy of making music with friends while building real performance skills.

The competition offers cash and development awards across all stages, and every group receives feedback from expert panels of musicians and educators. 

2026 KEY DATES  

Free Coaching Program and Monash Strike A Chord Workshop  

  • 23 Feb: Applications Open 
  • 20 Mar: Applications Close 
  • 11 – 12 Apr: Monash Strike A Chord Workshop  
  • 20 Apr – 15 May: Coaching Program 

Championship Section and Foundation Section  

  • 1 May: Entries Open 
  • 28 May: Entries Close 
  • 19 Jun: Finalists and Foundation Section Winners Announced 
  • 29 Aug: National Final 

To stay up to date on all things Strike A Chord join our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest information.

Previous competitions

See what made Strike A Chord 2025 unforgettable -record entries, alumni mentors and inspiring performances. 

Resources

Everything participants need for Strike A Chord: how to enter, choose repertoire, record videos, understand rules, explore prizes and past winners.

2026 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.

2026 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.

Foundation Section

For developing musicians up to AMEB Grade 4, the Foundation Section celebrates creativity, teamwork and the joy of first performances. Learn more about the rules and regulations here.

Championship Section

For advanced groups AMEB Grade 5 and above, the Championship Section showcases Australia’s finest young chamber musicians competing for major national prizes. Learn more about the rules and regulations here.

News & Stories

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MORE INFORMATION

To stay up to date on all things Strike A Chord, sign up to our eNews and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest information.

Please email strikeachord@musicaviva.com.au if you have any enquiries. 

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