The Australasian Recorder Competition 2028

About the Competition

The Australasian Recorder Competition 2028 is proudly presented by Orpheus Music as part of the 2028 Australasian Recorder Festival, held in Armidale, NSW. Open to Australian and New Zealand recorder students and amateur players, both soloists and ensembles,the competition offers a unique opportunity to prepare repertoire to a performance standard, deepen musical understanding, and receive valuable feedback from a distinguished jury of international and Australian recorder professionals. Finalists will also havea chance at winning prize money across a range of sections.

Preselection & Finals

The competition is held in two stages. For the Preselection stage, soloists and ensembles must submit a video audition by 1 October 2027. Selected finalists will then compete live before the jury and a public audience on 7 January 2028 during the Australasian Recorder Festival. All participants entering the Preselection stage, and all finalists, must be enrolled in the festival (with the exception of youth ensembles, where only a majority of members need be enrolled). If financial barriers make participation difficult, bursary support may be available, please contact Orpheus Music for assistance.

Sections & Repertoire

The competition includes two main categories: Solo Recorder and Recorder Ensemble, each with Open and Youth sections (and a Child section for soloists). Repertoire requirements vary by section. For the Preselection stage, soloists and ensembles perform two set works, which are listed in the full rules below. Finalists then add one free-choice piece. Ensemble repertoire must include an original Australian composition published by Orpheus Music (not an arrangement), and a free-choice work with specific historical or stylistic guidelines depending on the section. Full details, including set works and rules, can be found in the Competition Rules below.