CoLAB: Composer Accelerator Program

The 2027 New Now showcase will be held in Sydney on Thursday 12 August 2027.

Please ensure you will be available to attend Sydney based workshops in person from February through to August. Workshop dates will be confirmed with successful participants.

The CoLAB program is suitable for composers in the early-to-mid stages of establishing their professional careers.

Applicants should have highly-developed compositional skills, a strong musical voice and clear career ambitions, and be able to demonstrate previous practical experience and professional development.

All types of musical backgrounds, styles and pathways are encouraged. Formal music study and equivalent practical experience will be valued equally.

Female-identifying and First Nations composers are strongly encouraged to apply, as well as those living in Western Sydney or regional/remote areas.

Applicants must be:

• at least 21 years of age on 1 January 2026;

• an Australian citizen or permanent resident; and

• have not participated in the CoLAB program previously.

Application is by online submission only.

Applicants will be required to:

• Complete the eligibility criteria.

• Submit two (2) score examples of recent work;

• Upload two (2) video or audio examples of recent works, of which one recording must match a submitted score. Note: Quality of recordings will not be considered in assessment;

• Provide a link to a professional website or portfolio (optional);

• Outline previous training, participation in other programs, professional and non-professional experience, and awards or recognition (300 words);

• Write a short statement explaining how participation in the CoLAB program will enhance your compositional skills and further your career goals (300 words) ; and

• Provide references (min 1 and max 3) for a contact who can speak to your experience, skill and commitment, should you be shortlisted. References can be from an individual, group or organisation.

Applicants will be considered in the following areas:

• Suitability based on previous experience and demonstrated skills;

• Merit of submitted example scores and recordings; and

• Evidence of professional career ambitions.

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

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

Throughout the program, participants will develop an original chamber work under the following commission brief:

• Written for clarinet, violin, viola, cello and piano. The work must be written for the full ensemble without omitting or adding any players.

• No less than 10 mins and no longer than 15 mins in duration.

• Must be a wholly original work and not an adaption or arrangement of a pre-existing work;

• Participants are encouraged to use the extended workshopping opportunities to push their technical skills, with bold musical ideas and artistic risks.

• Live or pre-recorded electronics or additional production aspects will be supported in consultation with the ensemble.

Participants in the program will receive:

• A $1,000 contribution towards the commission and development of a new work.

• Two (2) Studio Workshops in Sydney with the ensemble and Australian-based mentors;

• Two (2) Digital Workshops with internationally-based mentors, held online.

• Final rehearsals and performance at the annual ‘New Now’ industry showcase.

• Flights (from nearest capital city) and accommodation for participants outside of NSW or those based in remote areas;

• A recording and documentation of work and participation;

• Additional access to performances, rehearsals, workshops and professional networking opportunities throughout the year.

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

No, a musical qualification or formal compositional training is not required. Demonstration of equivalent practical experience and/or participation in other programs will be valued equally.

I am not able to attend workshops in person. Can I still apply?

Successful applicants must be available to participate in all workshops, including in the studio and online.

If you are unsure of your availability for the program dates, you may still apply, however, should you be selected you will be required to commit to attending all workshops.

Applicants with access requirements that may prevent their attendance at workshops in person should apply. Additional considerations to support participation will be discussed should your application be successful.

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 their professional careers.

Having received commissions from professional organisations in the past makes you a highly suitable candidate for the program. You will be able to explain how you will use participation in the program to further your individual career.

I am based overseas. Can I apply?

Australian citizens and permanent residents currently based overseas can apply if you will be available to attend studio workshops and final showcase performances.

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

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.

Example works do not need to match the instrumentation of the commission in the program. However, we suggest submitting at least one work for mixed ensemble (small or large).

I already have composed a work that would suit the 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.

2026 - Robert McIntyre, Jessie Leov, Thomas Misson and Beth Roche

2025 - Cassie To, Alexandra Mison, Callum O’Reilly and Oliver John Cameron

2024 - Katia Geha, Felix Wallis, Zinia Chan and Klearhos Murphy

2023 - Natalie Nicolas, Ben Robinson, Naomi Dodd and Andrew Howes

2022 - Julia Potter, Mark Holdsworth, Christopher Healey, Sophie Van Dijk and John Rotar

2021 - Alex Turley, Lauren McCormick, Angus Davison, Chloe Sinclair and William Gardiner