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Ossa Music Prize

Established in 2018 and named after Tasmania’s highest mountain peak, the Ossa Music Prize is generously provided by Dr Rod Roberts alumnus of the University of Tasmania and Mrs Cecile Roberts.

The Prize supports a Graduate or an Undergraduate student (and/or an ensemble) in pursuing excellence in musicianship and performance, and underwrites a state-wide performance tour, with a special focus on the North and North West and East Coast regions.

The scholarship totals an amount of $10,000 inclusive of student prize and state-wide tour.


Eligibility

Applicants must be enrolled in a full‐time course (minimum 37.5%) at the Conservatorium of Music, University of Tasmania.

The prize will be awarded to the strongest applicant (which may be an individual performer or an ensemble of up to 3 players) following shortlisting and critique of applicants by a panel to ensure balanced representation of the Music program over time.

Whilst there is a preference for classical music performance this does, and should not, limit student opportunities and musical style.

Download the 2024 Information Pack (PDF 4.1 MB)

How to apply

  1. Download and complete the application form (PDF 145.7 KB); and
  2. Email your completed application with introduction, statement, proposed repertoire, touring plan and CV to CAM.Admin@utas.edu.au by midnight Friday, 17 May 2024.

Contact

Further information regarding the application process can be obtained from CAM.Admin@utas.edu.au.

Selection process

The selection process will consist of three rounds, with the third round being a public performance. The recipient will be the student or ensemble who satisfies the panel as the one most ready and prepared for the experience.

First Round

Written applications will be shortlisted, taking into consideration the quality of the application which includes:

  1. A written statement that addresses
    • The applicant/s’ interest in taking music to regional Tasmania, and how their musical performance will contribute to the cultural life of regional Tasmania
    • The concept for their musical programme and the music to be performed (think of this as a curated event, not just a medley of items)
    • Any extra personnel and/or equipment that would be required
    • How winning the Ossa Prize would benefit the applicant/s. Please detail what the prize money might be used for.
  2. A short CV

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to perform in the Second Round.

Second Round

Closed performances will be held Friday, 7 June 2024, at the Hedberg, and will consist of:

  1. Performance of two (2) contrasting pieces of music, lasting no longer than 15 minutes total;
  2. Short interview conducted by the audition panel regarding your proposed ideas for the concert tour.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to perform in the Third Round.

Third Round

The final round public performance will be held at on Wednesday, 26 July 2024 at the Hedberg.

The performance will consist of a program of no more than 10 minutes of your choice of music.

The prize will be awarded at the end of the evening.

Expectations of the successful recipient

The successful recipient(s) will play a series of concerts on a State-wide tour with a special focus on the North and North West and East Coast regions in early September.

The successful recipient(s) will be expected to be a good ambassador for the University of Tasmania at the Hedberg at all times (before, during and after the tour), and:

  1. Keep a travel diary and document their experiences;
  2. Submit a report of their trip detailing the experiences and how they have benefited from the opportunity;
  3. Perform in a Hedberg event within three months of returning.