Australian Composers School
APPLY NOW FOR 2026 – 2027
Our Australian Composers School (ACS) School is a pre-professional training program for experienced orchestral composers. The two-year course is aimed at identifying and preparing composers for a career in orchestral composing and possible commission opportunities from professional orchestras upon graduation.
You’ll work with some of Australia’s leading composers as well as the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra to hone your orchestral writing skills.
You can apply now for our 2026 – 2027 program! Applications close 9am, 17 April 2025.
Apply Here
COURSE MODULES & COSTS
Successful applicants will participate in 3 modules across the 2 year period, with some online learning sessions throughout the year. All modules take place in Nipaluna / Hobart at the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra’s Studio. Course fees and accommodation costs are covered by the TSO, however composers are required to arrange their own travel to and from Tasmania.
-
-
Module 1: Write two orchestra pieces (Year 1)
-
Module 2: Develop a composition intended for commercial use e.g. film score (Year 2)
-
Module 3. Compose a Concertino for solo instrument and orchestra (Year 2)
-
DO I QUALIFY FOR ACS?
- You will have a tertiary degree in composition or the equivalent professional experience
- You have had a piece of your work either workshopped or performed by an orchestra
- Be available to attend all sessions in person
- You are an Australian or NZ citizen or resident
KEY DATES & OTHER INFORMATION
- Applications close 9am, 17 April 2025
- Successful composers will be notified by the end of April 2025
- Four composers will be selected for the program
- Dates for 2026 - 2027 modules have not yet been finalised
- For more information about Australian Composers School, please contact Kim Waldock, waldockk@tso.com.au
“Australian Composers’ School has been an invaluable experience for my career. The experience of being in the room with an orchestra for a whole week and being immersed in that sound world is something that can’t be replicated in any other way. Learning from mentors and peers throughout the process has been incredible.”
Matthew Hindson
Matthew Hindson AM is one of the most-performed and most-commissioned composers of his generation. His works have been performed by ensembles and orchestras throughout Australia and internationally. He has been the featured composer at national and international festivals, with orchestras and Musica Viva. Matthew’s music has been used for dance including by the Birmingham Royal Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Ballett Schindowski and the Sydney Dance Company.
Matthew’s music often displays influences of popular music styles within a classical music context, and, as a result, directness and immediacy are common features in the much of his music.
Get TSO News
Be the first to hear about news, concerts and more! Join our mailing list today.
Sign Up