NSW Public Schools Symphony Orchestra

Region: Metro, Metropolitan South
Years 7 to 12 music students

NSW Public Schools Symphony Orchestra is an advanced ensemble. The ensemble is an avenue for talented and dedicated instrumentalists to represent their individual schools in a large instrumental ensemble setting.

Membership is by audition and successful students become a member of their ensemble for one year. All students must re audition every year to become a member of a weekly instrumental ensemble.

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symphony orchestra performing

Orchestra application

Applications are now open. To apply, please complete the instrumental ensembles application form. Applications close on Monday 5 October 2026, 5 pm.

Ensemble standards

  • Approximate standard for our intermediate ensembles (SWO, Stage Band and String Sinfonia) is AMEB grade 4+
  • Approximate standard for our advanced ensembles (SWE, Jazz Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra) is AMEB grade 6+

How to apply

Membership is by audition and successful students become a member of their ensemble for one year. All students must re-audition every year to become a member of a weekly instrumental ensemble.

Rehearsal details 

Symphony Orchestra rehearses Thursday afternoons, 4:30 pm to 7 pm at The Arts Unit, Lewisham

Cost

$700 per student (paid as $350 per semester)

Staff applications

Staff applications for all 2027 instrumental and vocal ensembles are now open to NSW Department of Education teachers, industry professionals and tertiary students.

Please complete the instrumental and vocal ensembles staff application form by 5 pm, Monday 5 October 2026.

Successful applicants will be notified by email on Friday 16 October.

Enquiries

Jennifer Reeves
Music Support Officer
The Arts Unit

All Arts Unit programs are inclusive. If support is required to participate in the NSW Public Schools Symphony Orchestra, please email music.artsunit@det.nsw.edu.au so that we can assist.