Every year, the Young Virtuoso Award gives young classical musicians a chance to step into the spotlight — and for some, it is the first time their music is heard live on air.

ArtSound FM is once again welcoming applications for the ACT Young Virtuoso Award 2026, continuing its long tradition of supporting emerging talent in Canberra and the surrounding region.

There is something special about hearing a young performer in a studio setting. The room is smaller, the listening is closer, and the performance carries a different kind of focus. That is what makes the ACT Finals such an important part of the award: finalists perform live in the Chris Deacon Studio at the Manuka Arts Centre, with the music broadcast on ArtSound 92.7FM, 90.3FM, and online at artsound.fm.

A chance for young classical musicians to be heard - Young Virtuoso Awards 2026 (2026)

For young performers, the Young Virtuoso Award is more than a competition. It is a chance to perform seriously, be heard properly, and take a meaningful next step with the support of a community radio station that believes in local talent.

Key details

Applications close: 5.00pm, Friday 28 August 2026
What to submit: a signed entry agreement and a 3–4 minute audition video
How to submit: send via WeTransfer to admin@artsound.fm or deliver it to the ArtSound studios at the Manuka Arts Centre
Eligibility: open to permanent residents of Australia or New Zealand who have lived or studied in the ACT or surrounding region for at least 12 months by 31 December 2026
Age limits: instrumentalists must be under 25, and vocalists under 30, on 31 December 2026
ACT Finals: 2.00pm–4.00pm, Sunday 4 October 2026
Venue: Chris Deacon Studio, Manuka Arts Centre
Broadcast: live on ArtSound 92.7FM, 90.3FM, and streamed online at artsound.fm
Final performance: two or more works from the classical repertoire, with a total performance time of 20 minutes
Rehearsal: each finalist will be offered a 15-minute rehearsal with ArtSound’s Yamaha grand piano in the week before the final