Audition for Play with Ray

Applications have now closed. Congratulations to the three winners.

Ever dreamed of performing on the stage of the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall?

Play With Ray is an international competition to find talented violinists of all ages, offering the opportunity to perform alongside internationally celebrated violinist Ray Chen and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, on stage at the iconic Sydney Opera House.

If you are a passionate amateur violinist, then this is the competition for you!

Get Your Tickets

Dreams really do come true! Get your tickets now to see three amateur violinists perform Bach with superstar Ray Chen – and hear Ray perform some of his very favourite pieces, live with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.

25 July 2023 | Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House

Submit Your Audition Video

To apply, follow these instructions to film yourself playing the alternate part of Bach’s Double Violin Concerto. You can apply for the first movement, the second movement, the third movement, or all three!

APPLICATIONS HAVE NOW CLOSED

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I participate in this competition?

Submit a video of yourself playing one (or two, or all three) of the movements of Bach’s concerto for Two Violins in D Minor and a completed application via the application page.

Is there a cost to enter?

No. This competition is free to all applicants.

Is this competition open to all instruments?

This competition is open to violinists only.

How will I know if I’m a finalist?

Finalists will be contacted in late April 2023.

Where can I find the sheet music?

The sheet music with suggested bowings can be found in the application page.

Do I have to prepare the entire concerto? Or just one movement?

You can choose to apply for either one movement, two movements or all three movements. One winner will be ultimately chosen for each movement.

How do I get tickets to the event?

Tickets can be purchased from the Sydney Symphony Website. Click here for tickets.

Do I need to be of a certain ability to compete?

No, this competition is open to amateur violinists of all skill levels. An Amateur violinist is defined as someone who does not make their primary income from performing.

Can I submit more than one application?

Only one application per applicant per movement will be accepted. Additional submissions will not be considered. Tampering with the submission process, or attempting to submit fake applications, will result in disqualification.

How old do I have to be to enter the competition?

This competition is open to violinists of all ages. Applicants under the age of 18 will need a parent/guardian to submit on their behalf.

If I'm a minor, does my parent/guardian have to accompany me if I am a finalist?

Yes. Any finalist under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian who is legally able to travel to Sydney, Australia.