2026 Great Romantics Competition

National competition platform for emerging Romantic performers.

Melbourne Recital Centre's Great Romantics Competition returns in 2026. Now in its seventeenth year, this important national competition provides a platform for young musicians and ensembles passionate about Romantic repertoire, including such luminaries as Brahms, Liszt and Schumann. Open to soloists, duos or small ensembles, Australia's talented young musicians will battle it out for the prestigious Elisabeth Murdoch Prize, which includes a combination of cash plus media and professional development opportunities.

The Great Romantics Competition is supported by Annamila Pty Ltd, Mrs Margaret S. Ross AM & Dr Ian C Ross.

Applications for the 2026 Great Romantics Competition are open now!

Entrants will compete for the $8000 Elisabeth Murdoch Prize plus media and professional development opportunities, as well as the $2,000 Kantor Encouragement Awards.

The Great Romantics Competition is open to instrumental and vocal soloists, duos or small ensembles (5 competitors or less), focusing on university music students or recent graduates. Entrants must be aged between 18 - 25 years of age (at 1 January 2026) and permanent residents or citizens of Australia or New Zealand.

Competition repertoire must consist of work/s composed between 1810-1900 and not exceed 20 minutes in total duration.

There will be one day of final competition performances to be held at Melbourne Recital Centre on Saturday 12 September 2026. This event is free, however tickets are required for entry.

Competition applications close at midnight on Wednesday 29 July 2026.

Interstate applicants are encouraged to enter and may apply for funding to support travel and accommodation expenses.

Please download the competition guidelines and complete the online registration to enter.

For all other enquires please contact 03 9699 2228 during business hours or email learning@melbournerecital.com.au

Ticket Prices

Tickets to 2026 Great Romantics Competition are free, however booking is required.

Please note, if the event is sold out, you may still obtain a seat by arriving at the venue before the start time and visiting the Box Office. They will have a supply of additional tickets available on the day exclusively for walk-ups.