Sing with the Sydney Symphony
For Secondary School Students
Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Thu 27 Aug, 2026, 7.00pm
Fri 28 Aug, 2026, 7.00pm
Sat 29 Aug, 2026, 7.00pm
Here is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and members of Gondwana Choirs alongside iconic Australian band, The Cat Empire. Participants must be available for all rehearsals and performances. Applicants can apply as individuals or as groups.
Step onto the stage of the Sydney Opera House and add your voice to a powerful massed choir, guided by world‑class musicians and educators in an unforgettable musical experience.
This is a unique opportunity for school students to take part in a major performance with one of Australia’s leading orchestras. Open to students in Years 7–12, with preference given to Years 9–12, this program invites passionate young singers to challenge themselves, grow their musicianship and be part of something extraordinary.
Participants must be available for all rehearsals and performances. This program requires students (or parents of students) to process an application per child.
There are two ways to apply for this program:
Individual applications
Students may apply individually. An application must be submitted for each student and can be completed by the student or by their parent or guardian. Individual applications require a video audition as part of the application process. Apply here.
Group applications for school choirs
School choirs may apply as a group of up to 20 students. Group applications must be completed by a teacher on behalf of their students. Teachers are not required to attend rehearsals or performances to supervise participating students. A video audition is not required for group applications. Instead, teachers must complete a set of questions within the application to ensure the choir is suitable for the program. Apply here.
Applications close Sunday 26 April 2026, 11:59pm
How to Apply
Step 1. Complete an Audition Video (individual applicants only)
Submit a 2–3 minute audition video featuring one work of your choice that showcases your voice and suitability for a choral project.
For information regarding audition video requirements, please follow the link here.
Pricing & Booking Information
Schedule (subject to confirmation)
Choir Rehearsal: Sunday 23 August 2:00pm–4:30pm, venue TBC
Choir Rehearsal: Monday 24 August 4:30pm–7:00pm, venue TBC
Rehearsal with Orchestra: Wednesday 26 August 5:00pm–9:30pm
Rehearsal with Orchestra: Thursday 27 August 10:00am–12:30pm
Performance 1: Thursday 27 August 7:00pm (5.30pm choir arrival)
Performance 2: Friday 28 August 7:00pm (5.30pm choir arrival)
Performance 3: Saturday 29 August 7:00pm (5.30pm choir arrival)
Venue
Sydney Opera House Concert Hall
Child Safety
Sydney Symphony Orchestra will provide a child safe environment for this activity including ensuring appropriate supervision. Parents are not able to attend rehearsals.
Pricing
The cost for participation in this event is $140 per child upon successful audition.
More about the concert
Following the overwhelming response to our 2024 collaboration, The Cat Empire again join forces with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for more joyous, uplifting performances. This special concert sees the band re-imagine their catalogue on a grand orchestral scale, blending beloved The Cat Empire classics with bold new arrangements written especially for this collaboration.
