UQ Chamber Music Academy

About the UQ Chamber Music Academy (UQCMA)

The UQ Chamber Music Academy (UQCMA) provides a rich, supportive environment for exceptional pre-tertiary musicians to hone their ensemble skills and artistic expression. Situated within The University of Queensland School of Music, the Academy offers personalized mentorship from renowned faculty and guest artists, fostering a deep engagement with chamber music through weekly coaching sessions, masterclasses, and performances.

Our mission is to inspire a lifelong passion for chamber music performance, equipping students with the skills to thrive in various professional and personal contexts. We believe that chamber music cultivates emotional intelligence, adaptability, teamwork, and critical thinking - qualities essential not just for future musicians but also for the leaders of tomorrow.

At UQCMA, chamber music is an expression of life and humanity, encompassing our triumphs, challenges, sorrows, and joys. More than an art form, it is a powerful means of communication. We are committed to nurturing this communicative skill, guiding students as they explore their identities and aspirations for the future.

UQCMA Teaching Team
Anna Grinberg
Doretta Balkizas
Patrick Murphy
Tim Li

Applying to Join UQCMA in 2025

This pre-tertiary program is open to secondary school students. You are welcome to apply as individuals or in pre-formed chamber ensembles.

Please note that UQCMA can only accept a small number of individuals and groups due to the small and highly selective nature of the program.

Online applications open on Monday 18 November 2024 and are due by 4pm on Monday 13 January 2025.

Application to Audition

Your application includes two links to an audio-visual recording on YouTube.

Video Upload Guide

The first is a recording of you or your chamber ensemble performing two contrasting musical works with a total combined duration of 8 to 10 minutes.

This video must be unedited and recorded in a single take. Your recording will be considered purely on the basis of your performance skills and musicianship. The quality of the recording is not taken into consideration. Phone, tablet and other audio-visual devices are all acceptable.

The second is an introductory video about yourself that addresses five topics:

1. Tell us your name, age, secondary school, year level in 2025, and current music teacher.
2. Please recount your favourite musical experience to date.
3. What is your most memorable chamber music experience so far and what do you enjoy about playing chamber music?
4. How did you hear about UQCMA and why do you want to be a part of this program?
5. Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

This video can be a single take or an edited compilation of several takes. The quality of the recording is not taken into consideration. Phone, tablet and other audio-visual devices are all acceptable.

Fee Inclusions and Course Structure

The 2025 fee for UQCMA is $1,300 (including GST). This covers both Semester One and Semester Two 2025. In each semester, UQCMA participants receive

• six coaching sessions (UQ sessions) at the UQ School of Music with our esteemed teaching team
• two masterclasses with guest artists (including one masterclass exclusively for UQCMA participants)
• a public performance opportunity, either on campus or in select venues around Brisbane, and professionally recorded to enhance the learning experience.