Video applications are now open for Rising Stars 2025.

Eligibility:
Applications are invited from students who have been playing their instrument for at least two years and are over the age of 6.

Round One: Video recording
Applicants are required to present two contrasting pieces of your own choice showing a range of musical and technical skill; a study and a piece are recommended. The recording should be no longer than 10 minutes and recorded within the last two months. No edits or cuts to the video are permitted, and both pieces should be played consecutively without breaks. The applicant should be visible, and hands clearly displayed throughout the video. Piano accompaniment is not permitted.

Videos are to be uploaded to YouTube as an unlisted video, with the student’s name and age in the title. The works being performed should be listed in the description box, including composer’s name. Please then email your url links to con.openacademy@sydney.edu.au. If the video is not received by the closing date listed, the applicant will not progress further and the fee will not be refunded.

Round two: Live audition
Applicants who pass the video auditions will proceed to a live audition round. The Live Auditions will take place after school on Tuesday 5th November from 4pm. You will be notified of your individual timeslots when you are notified that you have progressed to Round two.

No piano accompaniment is permitted.

Music Skills Diagnostic Assessment:
In addition to the instrumental audition, all successful applicants will be required to sit a Music Skills Diagnostic Assessment. Attendance at this assessment is compulsory for all successful applicants. The assessment is used to determine the appropriate level of Music Skills class for each student. The result of this assessment has no impact on whether or not the student is offered a place.

The Music Skills Assessment Date will be sent to successful applicants