Academy Program

• 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.

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

• 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.

Click here to see our teachers

Enrolment process:

1. Submit enquiry
   Begin by filling out the Enquire Now form to express interest in the program.
    
2. 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.
    
3. Complete signup
   Following the meeting, you’ll receive a link to the signup form along with payment information to finalise your enrolment.
    
4. 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

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

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).