Programs

The QLD Youth Orchestra Young Composer Program pairs emerging composers with talented soloists to create short solo works for the QLD Youth Symphony and QYO 2. Throughout the process, composers collaborate closely with their chosen soloist, crafting music that highlights the performer’s unique talents while exploring the full timbral and technical possibilities of their instrument. Participants are mentored by cellist and composer Craig Allister Young and Brisbane-based composer John Rotar, gaining expert guidance in composition, collaboration, and orchestral writing.

In 2026, the Australian Youth Composers Program (AYCP) will partner with the Logan City Symphony Orchestra (LCSO) and composers Craig Allister Young and Joe Twist to deliver a mentorship program for Logan high school students in composition and orchestration. Participants will create short works based on all things celestial to be performed at a concert at Canterbury College on June 11th 2026, conducted by Lewes Peddell. Finalists from within the program will have their work added to a main-stage LCSO concert on October 4th.

How to Apply

To apply you need to send a Musescore or Sibelius file, showing skills in composition and orchestrations to: craig@aycp.com.au

Applications close on the 16th of March.

Voices of Tomorrow is a collaborative program developed in partnership with the Brisbane Symphony Orchestra, supporting emerging female composers to create a new song cycle for soprano and orchestra.

Under the direction of conductor Stephanie Smith and with mentorship from Brisbane-based composer Lisa Cheney, participating composers will work collaboratively with a local poet to develop an original work integrating music and prose.

The completed song cycle will receive its premiere performance in concert with the Brisbane Symphony Orchestra, celebrating new voices and original storytelling on the symphonic stage.