Youth Music Awards now open!

The Dandenong Ranges Music Council are excited to announce the annual Youth Music Awards are open!

The DRMC's Youth Music Awards (YMA) are an annual competition event that awards prizes to outstanding young musicians in the Yarra Ranges area and beyond.

All entries close on 15th November, 2026 and the adjudication takes place on 15th December.

Entry forms: YMA Entry Forms

For further information: drmusiccouncil@gmail.com

2026 Youth Music Awards Categories

Category	Eligibility	Prizes
Mark McAlister Brass Award	Brass musicians who reside or study in the Yarra Ranges. Musicians must be 18 or under.	First prize: $150
Christopher Durrand Woodwind Award	Woodwind musicians who reside or study in the Yarra Ranges. Musicians must be 18 or under.	First prize: $150
Bill Borthwick Young Musicians Encouragement Award	Musicians must be primary school age.	First prize: $150. Second and third (non-cash) prizes awarded at judges’ discretion.
Jesse Exiner Instrumental Music Encouragement Award	Musicians on any acoustic instrument, aged 18 years and under. Minimum 2 years of learning or Grade 3 AMEB standard.	First prize: $300
Ann and Chris Krans Music Award	Musicians 18 years and under. Minimum Grade 6 AMEB standard.	First prize: $500 (may be split between two winners at judges’ discretion)
Ray Yates Piano Award	Piano students 18 years and under. Minimum Grade 6 AMEB standard.	First prize: $150. Second and third (non-cash) prizes awarded at judges’ discretion
DRMC Brass and Woodwind Award	Brass and woodwind musicians aged 18 and under.	First prize: $150. Second and third (non-cash) prizes awarded at judges’ discretion.
John Collins String Award	Students of violin, viola, cello, or double bass who are aged 18 or under.	First prize: $150. Second and third (non-cash) prizes awarded at judges’ discretion.