This event is for advanced students, ranging from Grade 7 and above to have performance opportunity and receive valuable feedback on their work. In addition, two scholarships totally $1,750 will be awarded to the most outstanding students from the day.

Adjudicator: Andrew Rumsey

M.Mus, B.Mus(hons), LRSM, Dip.ABRSM, AMusA

Andrew Rumsey is a classical pianist, accompanist, teacher and AMEB examiner whose international experience ranges from a Carnegie Hall debut in New York to performing at the Burning Man Festival in the Nevada Desert (in the same year). Graduating with a Master’s and First-Class Honours degrees from the Australian National University, Andrew has performed in China, Italy, Israel, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and the USA. He has participated in many international music festivals and residencies, and enjoys collaborating with artists around the world. A passionate advocate of Australian classical music, Andrew has given multiple world-premiere performances at home and abroad.

Performance Schedule

The event will proceed in two halves: the first is for the Grades 7, 8 and Certificate the second is for Associate and Licentiate candidates. Entries are limited.

The MTANSW Advanced Scholarship Challenge has been established from the Music Teachers Association of NSW Benevolent Fund. The purpose of the scholarship is to support the musical developments of the student to study in Australia or abroad. 

• All instrument types and voices are eligible for entry. 
• Performers must be aged 25 years or under and be residents of NSW.

First, second and third place trophies will be awarded in both categories. And, up to two scholarships will be awarded: One for students performing in the grade 7 to Certificate level worth $750 and another for Associate-Licentiate level worth $1000.

Rural and Regional Scholarship Entries

For students outside the Sydney, Blue Mountains, Newcastle, Central Coast, and Illawarra local government areas, regional entries will be accepted, via video, with the video played live and judged on the day.

Registration closing date is 12 noon, 24 July 2026

Entry Fees

MTA Member students: $35.00

Non-Member students: $45.00

See Terms & Conditions for further details.