Answers to the most commonly asked questions about MYO’s Winter School:

WINTER SCHOOL FEES & ADMINISTRATION

How much does Winter School cost?
$680, for both the symphonic band and choral program.

How old do I have to be to join Winter School?
The Symphonic Band stream is open to participants aged 8-25 as of the 1st of July 2025.

The Choral stream is only open to participants aged 10-18 as of the 1st of July 2025.

APPLICATION FORM

Do I have to audition?
Entry is by application only, there is no need to audition!

I made a mistake on my application form. What do I do?
Send us an email as soon as possible and we will amend your application form for you (myo@myo.org.au).

I’ve missed the application closing date, can I still apply?
Yes, we can sometimes still accept late applications for some ensembles if there is capacity. If you have missed the application closing deadline, please submit a 2025 Winter School Waitlist Application form as soon as possible. MYO will be in contact should a position become available. Please email our office to find out more at myo@myo.org.au (Office days are Tuesday to Friday).

I didn’t receive my application confirmation or allocation email, what should I do?
Please ensure you check your junk mail or spam folders for the email first.  If you cannot locate the email, please reach out to the MYO team via email (myo@myo.org.au).

When do I need to pay the Winter School fee by?
Full payment of the enrolment fee is required upon application. If there are concerns regarding the payment of the enrolment fee, please contact Sarah McDiarmid (Programs Engagement Coordinator) sarahm@myo.org.au as soon as possible.

When do applications close?
Applications close at 5pm Friday 23rd May. However, as Winter School positions are strictly limited, MYO may be required to close some instrument applications early. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment!

Do I apply for a particular ensemble stream?
For the 2025 Winter School, you will need to either apply for the Symphonic Band or the Choral stream in your application form. Please note, you may only apply for one stream. If you have any questions, please contact the MYO team (myo@myo.org.au)

I play a string instrument or piano, can I apply for Winter School?
As the 2025 Winter School is a Symphonic Wind Ensembles and Choral only program therefore, we’re unable to cater positions for string instruments or piano. However, all string players and piano players are encouraged to join our 2025 Winter School Choirs to further extend their aural and music skills. Participants are welcome to participate on string/piano at our 2026 Summer School when applications open in mid-July.

CHOOSING ENSEMBLES AND ALLOCATIONS

Can I play in more than one ensemble?
Winter School is designed so that all ensembles run concurrently, so it’s not possible to participate in more than one ensemble.

I don’t know what AMEB grade I am, what should I put on my application form?
If you are not currently undertaking music examinations, or have completed grades in a system not listed on the application form, please consult with your teacher as they will know what equivalent standard you are, or email our office for advice at myo@myo.org.au  (Office days are Tuesday to Friday).

How are applicants allocated to ensembles?

Symphonic Band Stream

The MYO team allocate applicants based on numerous factors, including:

  • Current examination level (AMEB or equivalent)
  • Age
  • Years of experience on the instrument
  • Previous ensemble experience
  • Auxiliary instrument experience

All this information is collected as part of the application process. Our expert team will use this information to allocate students to the ensemble best suited to their abilities.

Choral Stream

Applicants are allocated to their ensemble based on their age / experience. We have two choirs running at our 2025 Winter School one being aged 10-13 and another 13-18.

All MYO programs are designed to bring students together to enjoy the experience of ensemble playing and our Winter School is no different. While musical ability is considered, it is important that students are also allocated to ensure that their social needs are met during the course of the program.

MISCELLANEOUS

Where is Winter School held?
Winter School is held in the vibrant arts precinct in Southbank. All rehearsals will take place in the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, Southbank Campus. The Winter School Showcase will take place on Saturday 19th July at the Melbourne Recital Centre

Do I have to bring my own instrument?
Yes, although we do have limited auxiliary instruments available for hire. To hire one of our instruments, please email our office as soon as possible at myo@myo.org.au (Office days are Tuesday to Friday).

Percussion is the only exception; however, sticks are required; please see below for details.

I would like to play an auxiliary instrument, how can I apply?
If you are willing to play an auxiliary instrument (i.e. piccolo, Eb Clarinet, Bass Clarinet etc.), please indicate on your application form. Even if you do not own the instrument, we highly encourage you advise us what instruments you play as we do have limited instruments available to loan for the program.

I play percussion. What do I need to bring?
All percussion instruments are supplied; however, percussion participants are expected to bring a stick bag containing at least one pair of the following:

  • Drumsticks
  • Soft mallets for suspended cymbal (and/or vibraphone and marimba), xylophone mallets
  • Glockenspiel mallets
  • Timpani mallets

One of our regular percussion tutors has kindly put together the following list for all beginning/intermediate percussionist to contain in their stick bag: Percussion Mallet / Stick Guide

Will lunch be provided?
No, all participants are required to source their own lunch for Winter School. However, Lionel’s Café is located on-site at Winter School where you can purchase snacks, hot food and drinks. Students should bring their own bottle of water and some refreshments for the day.

Lionel’s Café will also have lunch orders available for pre-order. A link to pre-order lunches will be provided to families closer to the commencement of Winter School 2024.

I’m not from Victoria, can I still apply for Winter School?
Yes you can – our Winter School is open to interstate and international participants.

Please note: MYO is unable to offer student accommodation or travel allowances for the 2025 Winter School program.

Will I get the music before Winter School starts?
Due to the dynamic nature of our ensembles, all groups will be sight- reading a vast array of material. All participants will receive a link to digital copies of the music for practise purposes at the end of the first day of Winter School.

How do I get tickets to the concerts?
Tickets will be made available for purchase online through Melbourne Recital Centre. Tickets will open for purchase closer to the commencement of Winter School and will be communicated to families.