A step-by-step guide on how to enter Strike A Chord
How to Enter
Everything you need to know before submitting your entry.
Foundation Section
Foundation Section entries now open!
Entries are now open for Strike A Chord - Foundation Section. Submit your entry via the link below.
Foundation Section
The Strike A Chord Foundation Section is designed for ensembles in the early stages of their musical journey. It is a great way to learn about playing chamber music without a conductor, and how to create a recording.
An online single-round competition, it is open to groups with participants of any age, where all members are of a playing standard no higher than AMEB Grade 4 level (or equivalent). It is also free to enter!
Strike A Chord Foundation Section groups must be between 3 and 8 players, one player/singer per part, with no conductor or adult accompanist. The repertoire must be broadly classical in style, and 1-5 minutes long. You may enter with more than one piece if it fits under 5 minutes.
All groups that enter will receive a certificate and written feedback from the judging panel.
Foundation Section Key Dates
- 1 May: Entries Open
- 28 May: Entries Close
- 24 Jun: Foundation Section Winners Announced
- 29 Aug: National Final
Entry Requirements
- Entries are free for the Foundation Section
- Open to groups in which all members are playing at a maximum of AMEB Grade 4 level (or equivalent)
- Total performance time for each group must not be less than 1 minute or more than 5 minutes
- Ensemble members cannot enter the Championship Section
- An online application form must be completed by someone over the age of 18 on behalf of the group.
Strike A Chord welcomes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, students with a disability, and students from diverse cultural backgrounds to take part in the competition. Please let us know if you have specific access requirements so we can accommodate your needs by emailing strikeachord@musicaviva.com.au.
RESOURCES & INFORMATION
FOUNDATION SECTION RULES AND REGULATIONS
RULES AND REGULATIONS
Please ensure you have read the rules and regulations and meet the entry requirements when applying.
Useful information about Strike A Chord
Resources
FAQs, how to guides, rules and regulations, downloadable poster, and past winners.
Win big in 2026
Prizes
There is a total prize pool of over $50,000 in cash, development opportunities to be won.
Meet our Jury
Jury
Each year, we hand-pick a panel of Australia’s leading chamber musicians to judge our Championship and Foundation sections.