Australia’s premier classical music competition, the ABC Young Performers Awards, is set to return in 2026 as part of ABC Classic’s 50th anniversary celebrations. The competition, renowned for unearthing Australia’s most talented young musicians, will open for applications on Monday, 16 February, inviting emerging artists to compete on a national stage.
Open to performers under the age of 31, the competition aims to showcase young musicians to both national and international audiences. Entrants will navigate through three rigorous rounds, culminating in a Grand Final at the iconic Sydney Opera House. The final will be broadcast live on ABC TV and aired on ABC Classic radio, offering winners not only national recognition but also opportunities to perform internationally.
A Storied History
The origins of the ABC Young Performers Awards trace back to 1944, when the Australian Broadcasting Corporation organised state-based competitions to discover young classical music talent. By 1949, the first Commonwealth Final brought together winners from six states, establishing a tradition that has endured for decades.
From 1952 to 1968, several notable musicians rose to prominence through the competition, including celebrated pianists and instrumentalists. Some of these distinguished winners are highlighted below:
| Artist Name | Instrument / Category | Year Won |
|---|---|---|
| Max Olding | Piano | 1952 |
| Charmian Gadd | Violin | 1962 |
| Roger Woodward | Piano | 1964 |
| Nathan Waks | Cello | 1968 |
| Diana Doherty | Oboe | 1985 |
| Li Wei | Cello | 1993 |
The competition underwent a name change in 1968, becoming the ABC Instrumental and Vocal Competition, and in 1978 it was divided into four categories: Strings, Vocal, Keyboard, and Other Instruments. By 1986, state finals were structured under the same categories, and in 1987, the event adopted its current name, ABC Young Performers Awards.
In 2001, the Vocal category was placed under the auspices of the Music & Opera Singers Trust (MOST®), and by 2016, MOST® assumed full administration of the competition, with ABC serving as a media and broadcast partner. MOST® now provides financial awards, scholarships, and opportunities for young musicians to perform in top-tier symphony orchestras and concert halls.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The 2026 edition of the competition promises to propel Australia’s emerging talent onto the international stage, providing invaluable experience, training, and exposure at the outset of their professional careers. Each round will challenge participants to demonstrate their technical mastery, expressive depth, and creativity, making the event more than a competition—it is a milestone in the development of Australia’s classical music culture.
The ABC Young Performers Awards remain not only a platform for recognition but also a source of inspiration and education, shaping the next generation of musicians and contributing profoundly to Australia’s rich musical heritage.