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 staff, the Academy program is ideal for dedicated students interested in pursuing university-level study and a career in music. 

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 staff, 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 staff 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 Academy 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. 

Schedule 

Instrumental lessons 

30 lessons starting late February and running through to December.  

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 

Group classes will occur on all of these dates, however students are not required to attend every session. There will be a vast offering of various ensembles, masterclasses and performance classes from which you will be able to choose following confirmation of enrolment. 

Learning outcomes 

• Technical proficiency
  Develop advanced technical skills on your instrument through personalised 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 

Enrolment and policies 

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 

View our policies.

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).