Melbourne Youth Orchestras returns to Queen Victoria Market with The Big Busk 2026, bringing the sound of young Victorian musicians to the heart of Naarm, Melbourne.

On Saturday, 19 September 2026, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, one of Melbourne’s most iconic destinations will come alive with music. Over 650 young musicians will perform across a central main stage and multiple busking spots throughout the market, showcasing everything from solo acts and chamber ensembles to jazz bands, string groups, concert bands, and full symphonic orchestras.

This year’s event also marks a significant expansion of the Big Busk movement. Originally established by Sydney Youth Orchestras (SYO) and presented jointly with MYO in 2025, the 2026 event will now include Queensland Youth Orchestra and Music for Canberra, creating an East Coast-wide celebration of youth music-making, with thousands of young musicians performing in cities and communities across Australia on the same day. Tasmania Youth Orchestras and Adelaide Youth Orchestras will also join the initiative later in the year.

Following the incredible success of our inaugural 2025 event, which raised $35,000, we’ve set a fundraising target of $50,000 for 2026. All proceeds go directly to the MYO Future Fund, ensuring young people across Victoria continue to have access to life-changing ensemble music education and performance opportunities for generations to come.

The MYO Big Busk is more than a fundraising event; it’s a celebration of community, creativity and the transformative power of music education.

DATES: Saturday 19 September, 2026
TIME: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
WHERE: Queen Victoria Market, Naarm/Melbourne

The Big Busk is free to attend, with all donations supporting the future of music education in Victoria. Whether you’re a regular market visitor, music lover, family, or a curious passer-by, everyone is invited to stop, listen, and experience the joy of live music performed by Victoria’s talented young musicians.

Donations and Student Registration is now open
https://www.mycause.com.au/events/myobigbusk

Our Sponsors & Supporters

Publicist Sarah Guppy | This Much Talent Australia 

Graphic Design Ezra Nicolau | Enniday Proj.