At the Mackay Chamber Music Festival, we believe that music education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or location. Over the festival’s history, our education programs have had a positive impact on hundreds of students, providing regional musicians with unparalleled access to world-class training. Through masterclasses, workshops, and side-by-side performance opportunities, young musicians work closely with professional artists, gaining mentorship, inspiration, and artistic growth.
The festival proudly offers the Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship, honouring a passionate local educator and supporting the next generation of pianists while our masterclasses offer tailored guidance from some of Australia’s finest musicians. Whether through interactive workshops, individual coaching, or performing alongside professionals, MCMF fosters a thriving musical community, ensuring young musicians in Mackay continue to have access to exceptional learning experiences without the need to travel away from home.
Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship: APPLICATIONS OPEN LATE MAY
The Mackay Chamber Music Festival, together with the family of the late Anne Thompson, is proud to present this scholarship, now in its second year.
A proud and passionate local educator, Anne Thompson lived a life dedicated to music, and passed on this love of music to countless students over many years, as well as through her piano playing in numerous community groups and church settings.
The scholarship is intended to both honour the memory of Anne Thompson, her love of music and life-long learning, as well as provide opportunities and encouragement for a young, local piano student.
Valued at over $500, the successful scholarship recipient will receive:
Sunday 20 July, 9:00 -11:00 am
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music
Boundary Road, Ooralea
Local piano, strings and guitar students will perform in masterclasses with some of Australia’s finest classical musicians – violinist Doretta Balkizas, pianist Angela Turner, guitarist Slava Grigoryan, and cellist Sharon Grigoryan.
If you’d like to develop your skills as a musician and instrumentalist, or prepare for an upcoming Eisteddfod or performance, these masterclasses are the perfect opportunity! Our Masterclass facilitators are some of the best musicians and educators in the country, and can guide you through issues such as efficiency of playing, technique, musicality, performance and practise techniques and address any issues or questions you might have.