CoLAB:

The CoLAB: Composer Accelerator Program is suitable for composers in the early-to-mid stages of establishing their professional career.

Participants in the program should demonstrate highly-developed compositional skills, a unique musical voice as well as strong career ambitions.

Formal tertiary qualifications are not essential. Applicants from diverse musical backgrounds are encouraged to apply and acceptance to the program will consider both experience and demonstrated skill.

Female-identifying composers as well as those living in regional or remote areas are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants must:

• be between the ages of 18 and 35 as of 1 January 2024.

• be an Australian citizen or permanent resident;

Note: Eligibility has recently changed to allow Australian composers based overseas to take part in the program. See frequently asked questions for more information.

Application is by online submission only.

Applicants will be required to:

• submit two (2) score examples of recent work.

• upload video or audio examples of recent works (max 2). Recordings do not need to be of studio quality. One of these recordings should match one of the submitted scores.

• Provide a CV outlining previous or current study, professional and non-professional experience, awards or recognition, or participation in other professional development programs;

• Provide letters of support (max 3) that speak to your artistic strengths, or how you will benefit from the program. These can be written by an individual, group or organisation.

• A short statement as to how participation in the CoLAB program will be used to further your career goals and professional opportunities.

Suitability of applicants will be considered in the following areas:

• Suitability for the program based on previous experience;

• Demonstration of highly-developed compositional skills and strong artistic voice;

• Merit of submitted scores and recordings; and

• Demonstration of clear professional career ambitions.

Applicants will be selected by a panel. The decision of the panel is final.

Shortlisted applicants may be asked to participate in a brief online interview to confirm their suitability for the program.

• A $1,000 commission fee.

• Three studio workshops in Sydney, three digital workshops

• An industry showcase performance at Sydney Opera House and Melbourne Recital Centre.

• Flights (from nearest capital city) and accommodation for participants outside of NSW to participate in studio workshops and attend final showcase.

• Recordings and documentation of work.

• Additional access to performances, rehearsals, workshops and networking opportunities, including behind-the-scenes access to the Ensemble’s National Concert Season.

Participants will develop an original chamber work for Clarinet in Bb, Violin, Viola, Cello and Piano (5 musicians).

The work should be written for the full ensemble without omitting any players. Works that consist predominately of subsets of the ensemble are less desirable.

The final work will be 10-15 mins in length.

Live or pre-recorded electronics or additional production aspects may be considered in consultation with the Ensemble.

Do I need to have a qualification or formal training to be part of the program?

A musical qualification or formal compositional training is not required. Demonstration of experience and/or participation in other programs will be valued equally.

I am based in a remote area or am unable to travel for other reasons. Can I still apply?

Applicants living in remote areas or those who are unable to travel for other reasons are encouraged to apply. Should you be selected for the program, we will consider additional options to support your participation in the program.

I won’t be available to participate in all workshops. Can I still be part of the program?

Successful applicants based in Australia must be available to participate in all workshops, including in the studio and online. If you are unsure of your availability, you may still apply, however, should you be successful you will be asked to commit to all workshops.

I have received professional commissions previously. Is this program suitable for me?

Yes. This program is suited to composers with highly-developed compositional skills who are in the early-to-mid stages of establishing a professional careers.

Having received commissions from professional organisations in the past makes you a highly suitable candidate for the program and does not exclude you from applying. You will be able to explain how this program will help your career in the application.

I am based overseas. Can I apply?

Australian citizens and permanent residents currently based overseas can apply if you intend to reside in Australia for the program or will be available to attend the final showcase performances.

Please note, the program does not support international travel expenses.

If you are are unsure of your availability, you may still apply for the program and should you be selected you will be asked to confirm your availability at that time.

Can I apply as a group or in partnership with another individual?

No, only individuals may apply for the program.

Do I need to compose a new work to apply for the program?

No, this is not necessary and we encourage you to submit examples of previous work that highlight your ability.

These submitted works do not need to match the instrumentation of the commission in the program. However, we suggest submitting at least one work for small to medium ensemble.

I already have completed a work that would suit this program. If selected can I workshop that work with the Ensemble?

No, if selected for this program you must write a completely original work.

Arrangements or adaptations of previous work can not be developed as part of this program.

How do I find out more information?

If you need to ask further questions, please contact us at contact@omegaensemble.com.au.

Please note, while we can help answer questions regarding the program and your suitability, we cannot provide specific feedback or assistance with writing your application.