Supported by Judith Neilson AM & Phoenix Central Park
Meet Hourglass Ensemble, our 2026 Artists in Residence (classical)
Hourglass Ensemble brings over a decade of artistic innovation to the program. Co-founded by clarinetist Andrew Kennedy and flutist Ewa Kowalski, with pianist Anna Rutkowska-Schock as a core member, the ensemble has premiered 49 Australian works and performed nearly 100 concerts, including 25 appearances in the Sydney Opera House Utzon Room.
They note: “This residency offers us an invaluable opportunity to expand our reach through live performances, debut broadcasts and recordings of commissioned works.”
Meet Hilary Geddes Quartet, our 2026 Artist in Residence (jazz)
The 2026 Jazz Artist in Residence is acclaimed guitarist and composer Hilary Geddes and her quartet, one of the most distinctive improvising voices in Australia today. Leader of the celebrated Hilary Geddes Quartet, she is known for her cinematic soundscapes and freewheeling improvisations.
“I am truly honoured to be the 2MBS Fine Music Artist in Residence for 2026… I’m really looking forward to developing new work at Fine Music’s dedicated rehearsal and studio space, how thrilling,” she says.
About the Artists in Residence Program
The Artists in Residence Program is a unique 12-month residency that helps Sydney-based ensembles build a greater professional profile and audience. The residency is offered annually to one classical music ensemble and one Jazz ensemble.
Established in 2014, past Artists in Residence include the Omega Ensemble, Acacia Quartet, The Streeton Trio, The Marais Project, Elysian Fields, The Michael Griffin Sextet, States of Chaos, the Sydney Cello Quartet and Anoesis.
Value
Valued at $10,000 (with no cash component), the 2025 Artists in Residence will receive:
- Broadcast opportunities, including interviews and CD of the Week opportunities
- $10,000 promotional credit to be used for marketing activities on 2MBS Fine Music Sydney’s on-air and online marketing channels.
- Access to the Fine Music Founders’ Studio for rehearsals
Eligibility
Volunteers and Staff of 2MBS Fine Music Sydney are not eligible to apply for the residency.
Applicants must:
- Be based in Sydney
- Be in a classical music or jazz ensemble with two or more members
Selection Criteria
The Artists in Residence Program is not a performance competition and will be awarded to the applicant who best meets the following criteria:
- The applicant has actively demonstrated an interest, commitment and the potential for a viable career in the performance or composition of classical or jazz music.
- The applicant has identified a detailed project or activity with the potential to significantly enhance the ensemble’s career.
- The applicant has effectively demonstrated how the ensemble will utilise the sponsorship and broadcasting opportunities component of the Artists in Residence Program.
- The applicant has effectively demonstrated how the ensemble will utilise access to the Fine Music Founders’ Studio as a rehearsal or recording (at their own expense) space.
2026 Application Guidelines
Applications will close on 30 October 2026. Applicants must complete and submit all materials using the online entry form. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The applicant must sign an agreement with 2MBS Fine Music Sydney acknowledging and accepting the Terms and Conditions governing the Artists in Residence Program.
Provide details about the Ensemble and any project or activity with the potential to significantly enhance the ensemble’s career.
Provide material (documentation, recordings, reviews, references etc.) to support application
If selected as a finalist, the Ensemble may be invited to a follow-up interview or audition.