Instead of being divided into age groups, Junior Music Festivals are divided into sections by the grade/ability of the performer. This means that all participants have a chance to shine and even win prizes, even late beginners. Any recognised Exam board grading system is acceptable.

Trophy prizes are awarded in all sections, with all participants receiving a Certificate of Participation and a report from the adjudicator. Entrants must be aged 18 years and under as at 31 July. They may enter for more than one venue.

MARK MATTHEWS AUSTRALIAN COMPOSER AWARD  - The Mark Matthews Australian Composer Award will be offered at the Junior Music Festival Wollongong. For 2026, the fee for entering this section is $5 per student.

PIANO

The competitor must play a piece composed by Mark Matthews and the time limit will be 5 minutes. This award is open to piano students only, beginners to 6th Grade, duets not permitted. This section will be offered on the condition that 3 or more competitors have entered.

FLUTE

The competitor must play a piece composed by Mark Matthews and the time limit will be 5 minutes. This award is open to solo flute (with piano accompaniment) students only, beginners to 6th Grade. This section will be offered on the condition that 3 or more competitors have entered.

For any Mark Mathews compositions in the Beginners to 6th grade range- visit remarkablemusic.net

Cash prizes and a trophy will be awarded to the winners as follows:
Beginners to Grade 2 (Novice and Elementary)
1st Place    $25.00 
2nd Place   $15.00
3rd Place    $10.00

Grade 3 to Grade 6 (Intermediate and Late Intermediate)
1st Place    $50.00 
2nd Place   $30.00
3rd Place    $20.00

Location

Wollongong Conservatorium Auditorium
Murphys Avenue, Keiraville NSW 2500

NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED

Important Information

• JMF Entries are open to students of both MTA Members and non-members.
• Students must be no older than 18 at the 31 July. Proof of age may be requested.
• Students may enter each section once under each instrument (e.g. one entry playing piano, and another playing violin).
• Students may enter at more than one venue.
• A First Prize winner cannot compete in the same grade the following year.
• Students must provide their own accompaniment if needed.

Audience Tickets
Adult: $10 and Child under 12: Free
Teachers and accompanists: free entry
To avoid dissapointment, it is recommended that audience members pre-purchase tickets prior to the event. Tickets at the door will only be available if space permits.

Contact Details

Contact Event Organiser