Established by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra percussionist Robert Cossom in 2004, the MSO Snare Drum Award is designed to encourage the pursuit of excellence in snare drum performance in Australia and New Zealand.
Open to undergraduate tertiary students from Australia and New Zealand, this award provides an exclusive opportunity for applicants to further develop audition skills and performance techniques in a professional environment.
The winner receives percussion equipment and the opportunity to undertake a one-year mentorship with the MSO.
2026 Snare Drum Award
The 2026 Snare Drum Award will be held in Melbourne on Monday 17 August 2026 at 6:30pm.
We invite applicants to submit a video audition as per the requirements below.
Four finalists will be chosen to perform in the public final and notified by 30 July.
To be eligible to apply for this program, applicants must be currently studying percussion in Australia or New Zealand at an undergraduate level.
The set piece, one own choice piece from the list provided and one technical study must be prepared.
Video audition
Set Piece
ROBERT COSSOM Myriad
(Available on application)
Technical Study
Any etude from Douze Etudes pour Caisse Claire by Jacques Delecluse
Own Choice list (choose one etude from the list below)
- ROBERT COSSOM Pas de deux – available from Rhythmscape
- TRACEY PATTEN Five Reflections – available from the composer directly
- BARRY QUINN Episodes – available on application
Video filming requirements – please read this before completing your recording
- Videos should be recorded on the same day in the same location
- You may record each piece in separate takes/videos
- Please name each file according to which piece is featured in the video
- When setting up your camera, please ensure your whole body is in the shot and that your music stand is not blocking the snare drum/your hands
- You may film from a front or side view
Applications
To apply please complete the application form via the link below.
Applications and round 1 videos are due EOD Wednesday 22 July.
Attend the 2026 Competition
Special thanks
Prizes for the MSO Snare Drum Award are donated by Mastro Snare Drums, Zildjian, Evans, & Just Percussion.
The MSO Snare Drum Award is supported by Tim & Lyn Edward, Cecilie Hall, and the late Hon. Michael Watt KC.
Robert Cossom's position is supported by Dr Rhyl Wade & Dr Clem Gruen.
John Arcaro’s position is supported by Tim and Lyn Edward.
