Academy Program
Our flagship Academy Program offers a unique opportunity for South Australia’s talented young musicians to develop their artistry and musicianship, and provide a pathway to tertiary study and a career in music.
Tailored to committed musicians who are passionate about improving their skills, this year-long program provides an intensive music education with a mix of individual lessons, masterclasses, and concerts. Led by Elder Conservatorium faculty, the Academy program is ideal for dedicated students interested in pursuing university-level study and a career in music.
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Overview
- 30 instrumental lessons
Each student receives individual (one-on-one) instrumental lessons, offered in either 45-minute or 60-minute sessions. Lead by Elder Conservatorium faculty, these lessons are tailored towards the students’ individual goals with a focus on technique, repertoire, and artistic growth. Lesson times and days vary, and will be scheduled in collaboration between parents, students and teachers.
- 12 group sessions
Held on Saturday afternoons, these 2.5-hour sessions provide a structured environment where students can engage with peers and professionals, perform regularly, and refine their craft in a focused setting.
- Concerts
Students perform in concerts throughout the program, giving them the opportunity to showcase their progress in a formal setting. These experiences build stage presence, confidence, and a deeper connection to the music.
- Performance classes
Performance classes provide a workshop setting where students present pieces and receive constructive feedback. These sessions help students gain confidence performing in front of an audience.
- Musicianship classes
Musicianship classes offer students a deeper understanding of music theory, ear training, and other essential skills. These sessions support each student’s growth as a well-rounded musician.
- Masterclasses
Masterclasses with Elder Conservatorium faculty and national and international guest artists give students the chance to work closely with experienced professionals. These sessions offer unique insights into interpretation, technique, and musicality.
- Lectures
The Performance Program includes lectures on a variety of music-related topics, providing students with broader perspectives and a deeper appreciation of musical concepts, history, and theory.
- Class lessons
Twice per year, students gather for class lessons alongside their instrumental peers. Led by their instrumental teacher, these tailored classes will include instruction on technique, performance, audition preparation and musicianship.
- Piano accompaniment
The opportunity to work with our accompanist for rehearsals and concerts is invaluable for students in refining their timing, ensemble playing, and performance skills.
- Additional classes (for Piano students)
Piano students receive extra group sessions focused on repertoire, technique, and collaborative music-making, allowing them to gain specialized guidance from their instructor and peers.
- 30 instrumental lessons
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Schedule
Instrumental lessons
30 lessons starting late February and running through to mid November.Instrumental lessons are individual, and so lesson days and times will vary. Once assigned, teachers will contact students / parents directly to organise. Lessons most commonly occur on Saturdays, while some occur during the week after school and on Sundays.
Saturday program classes - Academy students
Dates / times Time Event 22 February 4:00PM Opening Concert 8 March 4:00PM - 5:30PM Performance classes 8 March 5:45PM - 6:30PM Workshops 22 March 4:00PM - 5:00PM Performance classes 22 March 5:15PM - 6:30PM Masterclass 5 April 3:00PM - 6:30PM Concert 3 May 4:00PM - 5:30PM Performance classes 3 May 5:45PM - 6:30PM Workshops 31 May 4:00PM - 5:00PM Performance classes 31 May 5:15PM - 6:30PM Masterclass 14 June 3:00PM - 6:30PM Concert 16 August 4:00PM - 5:30PM Performance classes 16 August 5:45PM - 6:30PM Workshops 30 August 4:00PM - 5:00PM Performance classes 30 August 5:15PM - 6:30PM Masterclass 13 September 3:00PM - 6:30PM Concert 11 October 4:00PM - 5:30PM Masterclass 11 October 5:45PM - 6:30PM Workshop 18 October 3:00PM - 6:00PM Concert 2 November 3:00PM - 6:00PM Masterclass -
Learning outcomes
- Technical proficiency
Develop advanced technical skills on your instrument through personalized instruction and targeted practice.
- Artistic expression
Cultivate a unique musical voice and learn to convey emotion and depth through your performances.
- Stage confidence
Gain confidence performing in front of an audience, with regular performance classes and concert experiences.
- Musicianship
Build a strong foundation in music theory and musicianship, enabling a deeper understanding of repertoire.
- Ensemble skills
Learn the essentials of collaboration and communication in group settings, enhancing your ability to perform in ensembles.
- Professional preparation
Gain insights into what it takes to succeed in a tertiary music program or a professional music career, including discipline, resilience, and adaptability.
- Technical proficiency
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Meet our teachers
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Enrolment and policies
Enrolment process:
- Submit enquiry
Begin by filling out the Enquire Now form to express interest in the program.
- Meeting
You will be invited to attend a meeting with Conservatorium staff for an informal assessment to help match you with the most suitable program and teacher.
- Complete signup
Following the meeting, you’ll receive a link to the signup form along with payment information to finalise your enrolment.
- Teacher assignment
The informal assessment serves to determine the right program and teacher for each student. You’ll be paired with a teacher, who will then contact you to organise lesson times.
Policies
Our policies can be viewed here
- Submit enquiry
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Fees and Scholarships
Scholarships and bursaries
A range of scholarships and bursaries are available through OMA, including merit-based scholarships, bursaries and scholarships for regional students and support for families facing financial hardship. These scholarships are designed to make music education accessible to all young musicians. Parents are encouraged to discuss scholarship options with our staff during the initial meeting to explore available support.Fees
Lessons Also included Cost (per year) Option A 32 x 45 minute lessons (30 individual and 2 class lessons) Full (12 week) Saturday program, all classes and accompaniment $3700 + GST Option B 32 x 60 minute lessons (30 individual and 2 class lessons) Full (12 week) Saturday program, all classes and accompaniment $4600 + GST Discounts are available for siblings and students enrolled in more than one instrument. A maximum discount of 10% is applied to the fees of the second student (in the case of sibling enrolment), or the second instrument (in the case multi-instrument enrolment).