ACO Academy 2022 - © Julian Kingma
Final Concert in Hanson Dyer Hall, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, University of Melbourne
ACO Academy 2017 - © Fiora Sacco
Final rehearsal at City Recital Hall, in Sydney
ACO Academy 2017 - © Fiora Sacco
Final rehearsal at City Recital Hall, in Sydney
ACO Academy 2022 - © Julian Kingma
Final Concert in Hanson Dyer Hall, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, University of Melbourne
ACO Academy 2019 - © Jeff Busby
Rehearsals at the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School in Melbourne
ACO Academy is an immersive learning experience, essential for any talented young string player who wants to be challenged and inspired.
Led by ACO violinist Aiko Goto, this annual program brings together exceptional high-school-aged string players from across Australia, for an intensive week of orchestral rehearsals, instrumental sectionals and chamber music sessions. Throughout the week participants will be coached and mentored by highly experienced ACO musicians, with opportunities to discuss future musical pathways for aspiring professional musicians. Participants will build on their ensemble playing, accuracy and technical skills, and grow in their knowledge of musical leadership, communication and performance style.
ACO Academy 2026
- ACO Academy 2026 will take place at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (Ian Potter Southbank Centre), Monday 6 July – Friday 10 July 2026.
- Participation Fee: $583. This is the total weekly fee for all rehearsals and tuition only.
- ACO Academy is a non-residential 5-day project. Participants not based in Melbourne are required to organise and fund their own travel expenses and accommodation. Interstate students under 18 must travel and stay with a parent or guardian for the entire duration of the program.
- There are limited bursary positions available for families of students experiencing financial hardship. Further information regarding bursary applications will be made available after participants have been accepted to the program.
Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must be 12-18 years of age and must be enrolled in an Australian High School (or a registered Home School). Primary School students are not eligible.
Recommended standard of performance:
Violin: Grade 8 AMEB / Suzuki Book 7 or equivalent
Viola: Grade 6 AMEB / Suzuki Book 5 or equivalent
Cello: Grade 6 AMEB / Suzuki Book 5 or equivalent
Double Bass: Grade 5 AMEB / Suzuki Book 4 or equivalent
Please note that this is a guideline, not a prerequisite - acceptance will be based on the standard of performance in the audition video.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW TO APPLY FOR ACO ACADEMY
FIND OUT MORE
ACO ACADEMY 2026 APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN
APPLY NOW
Applications close on Monday 30 March, 12:00pm AEDT.
Applicants will receive the outcome of their applications by Thursday 14 May, 12:00pm AEDT.
If you have any queries about ACO Academy, please email the Learning & Engagement Team at [email protected]
Supporting Partner
