2MBS Fine Music Sydney is calling on the next generation of Australian composers to take centre stage through the launch of the Class Act Composer Contest 2026, a unique initiative organised by the radio program Class Act to celebrate creativity, young talent, and music education.
Secondary school musicians from Greater Sydney are invited to compose a three-to-five-minute chamber work for Hourglass Ensemble, 2MBS Fine Music Sydney’s 2026 Artists in Residence. The competition offers students a rare chance to develop their compositional voice while gaining exposure through Sydney’s premier fine music radio station. The winning piece will be performed and recorded by Hourglass Ensemble in the 2MBS Founders’ Studio during Term 3, 2026.
The two running-up pieces will also be workshopped by Hourglass Ensemble in the 2MBS Founders’ Studio during Term 3, 2026, with the composers present, at a date and time to suit all parties.
Hosted by young people for young people, Class Act is a truly unique Australian radio program. No other station runs a composer competition like this, giving secondary students the rare opportunity to hear their original works performed by professional musicians.
Submissions close on Friday 3 July 2026.
Happy composing.