The Music Teachers' Association of NSW, Newcastle Committee, presents the 2026 Newcastle Errol Collins Award on August 23, 2026.

Open to Violin and Viola students residing in the Newcastle, Hunter, Upper Hunter, Central Coast, Mid-North Coast or New England Regions of NSW, these events will be held at the Adamstown Uniting Church.

1.00pm Junior Award - The Junior Award is open to students who are currently studying and presenting works from any early grade levels up to and including Grade 6 AMEB or equivalent level. Maximum age limit of 17 years at the time of the Award performance.

• Performer Entry $20
• Audience Child 12 and under: FREE
• Audience Student 13-18 years: $5 
• Audience Adult: $10 
• MTA teacher: FREE

2.15pm Senior Award - The Senior Award is open to students who are currently studying and presenting works from Grade 7 AMEB and above, or equivalent levels. Maximum age limit of 21 years at the time of the Award performance.

• Performer Entry $25
• Same audience prices as above

For full Terms & Conditions visit 2026 Errol Collins Award

Bookings open for the Errol Collins and Wendy Ireland Award events on Friday 17 July and close on Friday 14 August. 

Adjudicator

Luke Spicer is an Australian conductor and music director known for his dynamic leadership in both operatic and symphonic music. Initially trained as a violist, he transitioned into conducting, earning recognition for his expressive performances. Spicer completed his Master of Conducting at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, with further studies in Freiburg and Manchester, and mentorship under Maestro Gianluigi Gelmetti in Siena. He has held prominent positions, including Principal Conductor of the Sydney University Symphony Orchestra and Music Director of Blush Opera. His operatic debut came in 2015, and he has conducted various prestigious orchestras, such as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Spicer's recent work includes conducting critically acclaimed productions of Handel’s Alcina and Bizet’s Carmen. He is committed to shaping Australia’s musical community, with a focus on nurturing the next generation of musicians.