AUSTA VIC
AUSTA Victoria supports string teachers, students, and performers across Victoria with a wide range of professional development, performance, and networking opportunities. The chapter hosts events including Reading Days, Mini-Conferences, Concerto Competitions, String Festivals, and Professional Weekends, providing hands-on learning, expert-led workshops, and ensemble experiences for musicians of all levels.
AUSTA VIC fosters a strong sense of community, connecting teachers, students, and professional musicians to share knowledge, develop skills, and celebrate excellence in string playing and teaching. For updates and event information, visit our Events page.
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February 2026
08febAll DayAUSTA VIC Reading Day and AGM
Event Details
Come join us for our Annual AUSTA Vic Reading Day and AGM! Explore fresh repertoire for string ensembles.
Event Details
Come join us for our Annual AUSTA Vic Reading Day and AGM!
Explore fresh repertoire for string ensembles.
Join us for AUSTA VIC’s annual String Reading Day, proudly supported by Fine Music.
An energising afternoon where teachers, conductors, and ensemble directors come together to explore new and exciting works for string orchestra.
We will read through a wide range of international and Australian compositions, from emerging voices to established favourites, with a special spotlight on the creativity of our local Victorian composers. All selected works have strong pedagogical value, offer accessible technical challenges, and are suitable for ensembles across primary, secondary, and community levels.
Reading Day is a practical, hands-on way to refresh your repertoire list, connect with colleagues, discover new music your students will love, and support the ongoing growth of string education.
We would love to see you there!
Date: Sunday 8th February
Time: 1 – 4:30pm (including AGM)
Venue: Xavier College Senior School – EHPAC
Attend in person: https://www.trybooking.com/DHXGK
Can’t make it – join us online: https://www.trybooking.com/DHXMF
Time
08/02/2026 All Day(GMT+11:00)
Location
Xavier College Senior School
135 Barkers Rd, Kew
Organizer
08febAll DayAUSTA VIC Reading Day and AGM - livestream
Event Details
Come join us for our Annual AUSTA Vic Reading Day and AGM – online! Explore fresh repertoire for string
Event Details
Come join us for our Annual AUSTA Vic Reading Day and AGM – online!
Explore fresh repertoire for string ensembles.
Join us for AUSTA VIC’s annual String Reading Day, proudly supported by Fine Music.
An energising afternoon where teachers, conductors, and ensemble directors come together to explore new and exciting works for string orchestra.
We will read through a wide range of international and Australian compositions, from emerging voices to established favourites, with a special spotlight on the creativity of our local Victorian composers. All selected works have strong pedagogical value, offer accessible technical challenges, and are suitable for ensembles across primary, secondary, and community levels.
Reading Day is a practical, hands-on way to refresh your repertoire list, connect with colleagues, discover new music your students will love, and support the ongoing growth of string education.
We would love to see you there!
Date: Sunday 8th February
Time: 1 – 4:30pm (including AGM)
Can’t make it – join us online: https://www.trybooking.com/DHXMF
Time
08/02/2026 All Day(GMT+11:00)
Organizer
March 2026
05marAll DayAUSTA VIC welcomes Simon Fischer
Event Details
AUSTA VIC welcomes Simon Fischer Simon Fischer is one of the world’s most highly regarded string pedagogues, internationally respected for his profound and lasting impact on string
Event Details
AUSTA VIC welcomes Simon Fischer
Simon Fischer is one of the world’s most highly regarded string pedagogues, internationally respected for his profound and lasting impact on string teaching and technical understanding. As a violinist, teacher, and author, his work has shaped the way generations of musicians approach technical development, problem-solving, and effective practice.
He is best known for his influential pedagogical publications, including Basics, Practice, Scales, and Warming Up, among many others. These works are valued for their depth, clarity, and practical approach, offering musicians clear and effective solutions to complex technical challenges. With decades of experience as a performer, clinician, and educator, Simon brings exceptional insight into technique, tone production, and the development of effective practice strategies.
In this online professional development session, Simon will explore principles of tone production, alongside broader technical and pedagogical considerations, sharing advanced insights drawn from his extensive teaching and research. Participants are encouraged to come prepared with questions, with dedicated time allocated for discussion and exploration of specific technical and pedagogical topics.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Date: Thursday 5th March
Time: 7:30 pm
Online
Tickets:
AUSTA Members: $30
Students: $35
Non-members: $60
For all bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/DIQBB
All enquiries please contact: austavicsecretary@austa.asn.au
Time
05/03/2026 All Day(GMT+11:00)
Organizer
29marAll DayAUSTA VIC String Performers Festival
Event Details
2026 AUSTA Vic String Performers Festival! The String Performers Festival is an inclusive, student-centred performance event designed to nurture confidence, musical growth, and a love
Event Details
2026 AUSTA Vic String Performers Festival!
The String Performers Festival is an inclusive, student-centred performance event designed to nurture confidence, musical growth, and a love of performing. Hosted in a supportive, non-competitive setting, the festival provides young string players with the opportunity to share their music in front of an encouraging audience.
Students perform in small sessions, allowing for a calm and positive experience. Each performer receives individual written feedback from experienced string educators, helping to support ongoing learning and development beyond the event itself. All participants are also presented with a festival medallion in recognition of their achievement.
The festival is particularly suited to beginner–Grade 4 level performers, though students performing at higher levels are also welcome to participate with their own accompanist. Family, friends, and teachers are warmly encouraged to attend, creating a celebratory environment that supports every student on stage.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Date: Sunday 29th March
Sessions: 9:00, 10:00 and 11:00
Venue: Yarra Valley Grammar
For all performer bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/DIQAG
All enquiries please contact: austavicsecretary@austa.asn.au
Time
29/03/2026 All Day(GMT+11:00)
Location
Yarra Valley Grammar School
Kalinda Rd, Ringwood
Organizer
Past Events
February 2025
09feb1:00 PM4:30 PMAUSTA VIC Reading Day & AGM 2025AUSTA VIC 2025 Reading Day & AGM
Event Details
AUSTA VIC 2025 Reading Afternoon & AGM Get 2025 off to a musical start by reading through a collection of new music for string orchestra. Take part in our
Event Details
AUSTA VIC 2025 Reading Afternoon & AGM
Get 2025 off to a musical start by reading through a collection of new music for string orchestra. Take part in our Annual General Meeting, enjoy refreshments and catch up with colleagues!
BOOKINGS NOW OPEN!!!
TO BOOK: CLICK HERE or go to https://www.trybooking.com/CYNEH OR USE THE QR CODE BELOW.
We prefer bookings so that we can cater appropriately and plan for the correct number of people. You can pay on the day, but please book if you can.
Sunday 9 February 2025: 1 – 4:30pm
St Kevin’s College
Glendalough Campus: McMahon Music Building
75 Lansell Road
Toorak, VIC 3142
Cost: Members – $25, Non members – $45, Concession – $30
Chairs & stands provided but please bring a Keep Cup!
PD certificates can be collected on the day upon registration.
The AUSTA VIC AGM will take place at 2.30pm just before afternoon tea.
Bring along any excess music you have and give it away on the day. Find that piano part you are missing, or track down that piece that you remember so well! Share with your colleagues and find that hidden gem!
We look forward to seeing you on the day!
Enquiries: Andrew Schellhorn 0449 766 632
Time
09/02/2025 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM(GMT+11:00)
Location
St. Kevin's College
75 Lansell Road
Organizer
March 2025
30mar10:00 AM12:00 PMVIC: 2025 Cello Extravaganza!
Event Details
AUSTA Victoria supports 2025 Cello Extravaganza! In conjunction with Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, AUSTA is pleased to support the 2025 Cello
Event Details
AUSTA Victoria supports
2025 Cello Extravaganza!
In conjunction with Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School, AUSTA is pleased to support the 2025 Cello Extravaganza!
Sunday,30th March 2025
9.45am – registration
10am – 12noon – Cello Extravaganza!
To participate, please fill in the form HERE.
VENUE:
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School
Keilor East Campus
Corner of Keilor & Rachelle Roads
Keilor East VIC 3033
Enquiries: jamesderozario@hotmail.com
Bookings open till 14 March 2025
Time
30/03/2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM(GMT+11:00)
Location
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School
Corner of Keilor & Rachelle Roads
Organizer
30mar9:00 AM2:00 PMAUSTA VIC - 2025 String Performers Festival
Event Details
AUSTA Victoria presents 2025 String Performers Festival We are very excited to be presenting our eleventh String Performers Festival, a welcoming, non-competitive
Event Details
AUSTA Victoria presents
2025 String Performers Festival
We are very excited to be presenting our eleventh String Performers Festival, a welcoming, non-competitive performance opportunity for students. String students of all levels are welcome and all performers will receive written feedback and a medallion. Family and friends will make up the audience for each session.
Sunday,30th March 2025
9am – 12.30pm
There will be three sessions on the day to choose from. A Festival Accompanist will be available for Preliminary – Grade 4 pieces on the day.
- Session One: 9.00 – 10.00am Festival Accompanist Available
- Session Two: 10.00 – 11.00am Festival Accompanist Available
- Session Three: 11.00– 12.30pm Festival Accompanist Available
Cost: $32.50 per performer / $17.50 per additional family performer.
Senior players are always welcome to perform at the Festival, however the day tends towards beginner and middle level players.
All performers are welcome to bring lots of family and friends to support them on the day. Performance numbers are limited, so book quickly!
VENUE:
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School
Keilor East Campus
Corner of Keilor & Rachelle Roads
Keilor East VIC 3033
Enquiries: jamesderozario@hotmail.com
Bookings open 1st February 2025: CLICK HERE TO BOOK or use the QR Code below.
Time
30/03/2025 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM(GMT+11:00)
Location
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School
Corner of Keilor & Rachelle Roads
Organizer
May 2025
Event Details
2025 Melbourne String Orchestra Festival Eltham High School: Sunday 18th May 2025 12:15pm – Registration 1:00pm – Festival String Orchestra Rehearsal 2:30pm Afternoon Tea
Event Details
2025 Melbourne String Orchestra Festival
Eltham High School: Sunday 18th May 2025
12:15pm – Registration
1:00pm – Festival String Orchestra Rehearsal
2:30pm Afternoon Tea
3:00pm Festival Concert
4:00pm Finish
Festival Piece: DARK MATTER by Andrew Aronowicz
REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN!
Request a registration form at austavicpresident@outlook.com
Eltham High School
30 – 60 Withers Way
Eltham VIC 3095
Time
18/05/2025 12:15 PM - 4:00 PM(GMT+10:00)
Location
Eltham High School
30-60 Withers Way
Organizer
August 2025
03augAll Day2025 Paul McDermott Violin ScholarshipAdjudicated by Lisa Grosman
Event Details
The Paul McDermott ScholarshipEach year, young Victorian violinists are invited to apply for
Event Details
The Paul McDermott Scholarship
Each year, young Victorian violinists are invited to apply for the prestigious Paul McDermott Scholarship—but few know the remarkable story behind the man whose name it bears.
Established in 1980 by an anonymous local music lover and benefactor, the scholarship honours Paul McDermott, a beloved local violinist, conductor, and champion of music education. McDermott served as the chief conductor of the Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra from 1960 to 1973 and was the founder and president of the Australian Musicians’ Guild. Under his leadership, the Guild flourished, presenting regular concerts and launching Music in the Round, a celebrated weekend-long festival held at historic venues such as Werribee Mansion and the Abbotsford Convent. This event became a highlight in Melbourne’s cultural calendar from 1972 until McDermott’s passing in 1985, and served as a unique platform for scholarship recipients to perform alongside leading Australian and international chamber musicians.
After McDermott’s death, and the eventual closure of the Guild in 1996, the scholarship was entrusted to AUSTA VIC, who proudly continue its legacy. Though Music in the Round ended, its spirit has been revived in recent years through projects by Jeff Crellin and Chris Howlett.
Today, the Paul McDermott Scholarship remains a significant accolade in the Victorian string community—a $1500 award that supports the further study of a promising young violinist under the age of 15. The recipient also receives the opportunity to perform at an AUSTA VIC event, adding a prestigious milestone to their musical journey and honouring the vision of a man who gave so much to Australian music.
For more information, please contact Andrew Schellhorn: andrew.schellhorn@gmail.com
To apply for audition, please follow this link: https://forms.gle/knfX7ok4rU4ihkkq8
Bibliography: Cooke, Max. The Australian Musicians’ Guild [online]. Australian Journal of Music Education, No. 9, Oct 1971: 47-48.
Time
03/08/2025 All Day(GMT+10:00)
Organizer
September 2025
18sepAll Day242025 AUSTA VIC Spring Pedagogy Series
Event Details
We are excited to announce the AUSTA VIC Spring Pedagogy Series! This September,
Event Details
We are excited to announce the AUSTA VIC Spring Pedagogy Series!
This September, join us online for three inspiring sessions led by outstanding educators from across the East Coast.
Lachlan Dent – Making Young Ensembles Sound Great!
Thursday 18 September, 7:00 pm
Practical strategies for tone development, rhythm, intonation, and repertoire.
https://www.trybooking.com/DFHUS
Stephen Chin – The Art of Scales
Monday 22 September, 6:30 pm
A hands-on exploration of how scales can nurture technique, musicianship, and expression.
https://www.trybooking.com/DFIBN
Bernardo Alviz – All Things Double Bass
Wednesday 24 September, 7:00 pm
A deep-dive into repertoire, posture, technique, and everything double bass.
https://www.trybooking.com/DFIBO
Stay at home, recharge, and connect with colleagues while gaining practical tools to energise your teaching.
Time
18/09/2025 - 24/09/2025 (All Day)(GMT+10:00)