“The AHE Alchemy Experience gives emerging musicians the chance to perform on period instruments alongside our specialist players.”

The Australian Haydn Ensemble is excited to announce its new Emerging Artist Program, AHE Alchemy, launching in 2025. This initiative is designed for early-career musicians with a passion or interest in historically informed performance practice and period instrument performance. It provides a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with AHE musicians, gain hands-on experience performing on period instruments, and participate in professional-level public performances.

The annual program is primarily for musicians who have recently completed or are nearing the completion of their studies. Participants will be mentored by AHE musicians and involved in a range of events throughout the year. The program is also open to modern instrumentalists, both emerging and professional, who are eager to expand their skill set by learning period instrument techniques or have an interest and want to ‘have a go’ at period instrument playing in a supportive environment.

At the core of the AHE Alchemy program is the music of Haydn. During workshops and rehearsals, participants will explore Haydn's distinctive musical style and approach to performance along with music by other composers from the late 18th century. Discussions will focus on the social nature of his compositions and how this influences interpretation and audience engagement. The program encourages participants to approach these symphonies as extended chamber music, where the ensemble collaborates in shaping the rehearsal process and the final performance.

How It Works

The 2025 program includes two major projects:

1. Project 1 - Chamber Music tour in Regional NSW (August): A three-day intensive chamber music rehearsal period led by Artistic Director Skye McIntosh followed by a regional NSW tour.

2. Project 2 - AHE Alchemy Orchestra tour to Sydney and Regional NSW (September): A second intensive project - The Alchemy project will culminate in a concert performed by the AHE Alchemy Ensemble in Sydney.

In addition, participants may be able to access lessons on period instruments, mentoring sessions, and the opportunity to observe AHE rehearsals and engage in the ensemble's Education program.

2025 Program Details

• Project 1: Intensive Chamber Music Project - August, 2025 (Sydney & Regional NSW)

• Project 2: Orchestral Project - September, 2025 (Sydney)

• Additional Opportunities: Lessons, mentoring, and performance opportunities throughout the year, subject to individual availability.

• Location: Sydney and Regional NSW

• Concerts: Participants will perform alongside AHE musicians in special AHE Alchemy concerts.

Who Can Apply

AHE Alchemy is open to advanced instrumentalists who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, typically aged 25-35. Applications are welcome from players of the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute, oboe, bassoon, horn, guitar/theorbo and harpsichord/fortepiano, as well as other historically appropriate instruments.

• Playing Standard: Applicants should have a playing level equivalent to a graduate or postgraduate level.

• Period Instrument Experience: Prior experience with period instruments is not required but is highly encouraged. Successful applicants without access to a period instrument will be provided one for the duration of the program.

Application Process

Entry to AHE Alchemy is by online application, audition (by video) and interview. Applicants must submit a video recording of two contrasting pieces: one Classical or early Romantic work and one Baroque piece. While the video should be of high quality, it does not need to be professionally produced. Please complete the application form included below.

• Audition Video Submission: Submit a video link (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.) with the two required pieces. One piece should be from the Classical or early Romantic period, and the other from the Baroque period. Up to 10 mins each.

• Video Format: Ensure the video is clear and of good quality. Recordings made with a smartphone or similar device are acceptable, and videos can be set to 'unlisted' for privacy.

• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by April 30, 5pm, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by 31 May, 2025.

For more information about AHE Alchemy or to submit your application, please complete the application form on the Australian Haydn Ensemble website or contact us directly at admin@australianhaydn.com.au

Period Instruments - Do I need to have one already?

What if I don’t have a period instrument or have never played one?
No worries at all! You do not have to own a period instrument to participate. AHE will connect you with an appropriate period instrument for the program from our new period instrument collection. Feel free to email us if you have any questions about this element.

To apply, complete and submit the application form below by April 30, 5pm.