Awarding excellence in brass performance
Open to Bachelor of Music students completing elective studies in brass, this prize awards excellence in performance and calls for a program two contrasting works. There are prizes for first, second and third place.
Key points
Targeted to
Brass students
Value
$1,000 (first prize)
Apply by
Friday 28 August 2026, 4pm
Competition details
To be eligible for this prize, you must be
- be a Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University undergraduate student completing a Bachelor of Music degree
- be completing elective studies in Performance (Brass Instruments) (Classical)
- not have received the first-prize award in previous years.
Each entrant is required to present a program of two contrasting works, not exceeding 15 minutes in total.
Submit a completed application form, following the submission details on the form:
The XO Brass Prize Application form
Selection process
- The prizes will be awarded for excellence in performance.
- The award of the prizes shall be determined at a public competition to be held annually.
- Each entrant is required to present a program of two contrasting works, not exceeding 15 minutes in total.
- The cost of the accompanist will be borne by the entrant.
- Previous first prize winners are not eligible to apply.
- A judging panel of three comprising the Director of QCGU (or their delegate), Head of Brass Studies (or their delegate) and one independent industry member of repute.
- No judge may be the teacher of a student who is competing.
- First Prize: $1,000 gift voucher to Brass Music Specialists and trophy. Trophy to be displayed in the brass studios at QCGU.
- Second Prize: $500 gift voucher to Brass Music Specialists.
- Third Prize: $250 gift voucher to Brass Music Specialists.
Donor
XO began with the vision of Koichi Haido, Chief Instrument Technician at the Global Corporation in Japan. After many experiments and countless prototypes, the first XO trumpet was introduced to the market in 1995.
Combining contemporary precision with traditional craftsmanship, XO brass instruments are ideal for professional players, developing students and serious amateurs. Through close consultation with both musicians and technicians, XO works towards building a more intimate connection between musician and instrument. The tremendous playability of every XO instrument ensures delivery of precise intonation and beautiful tonal quality: the perfect tool to achieve the performer's musical and artistic goals.
XO, in conjunction with Orchestral Supplies Australia, is proud to sponsor this wonderful competition, and excited to play a part in fostering the development of the next generation of Australian professional brass musicians. A special thank you to our retail partner
Brass Music Specialists for their continued support, and to the Queensland Conservatorium and Griffith University for allowing us to be involved in this event.
Competition date: Tuesday 8 September 2026
Time: 7pm
Venue: Ian Hanger Recital Hall
Get in touch
If you have a question, need some help with your scholarship application, or would like to make a donation, feel free to contact us.