Melbourne is back!

The 10^th Melbourne International Chamber Music Competition (MICMC) will take place from July 2-9, 2027. Established in 1991and held every four years, MICMC has catapulted many of today’s leading groups onto the world stage, including the Doric, St. Petersburg, Amaryllis and Kelemen Quartets, and the Jean Paul, Eggner, Bohémo and Atos Trios. The hometown crowd were thrilled when Melbourne’s own Affinity Quartet took the Grand Prize in 2023, becoming the first Australian group ever to do so.

In addition to being one of the world’s most highly regarded chamber music competitions, MICMC aims to provide competitors with a holistic experience during their stay in Melbourne. All groups have their own local volunteer “hosts” at their service for the week, ready to answer questions, give advice, take them sightseeing if time allows and solve local problems. Some of these relationships turn into enduring friendships.

Groups are encouraged to come to Melbourne a few days early, especially if travelling from afar, to get acclimatised before the hard work begins. They may wish to be involved in organised community activities for a few hours, such as coaching high-school groups or engaging with MICMC’s Community Partner, Music and the Brain Foundation, in some of their local community music initiatives. 

MICMC’s Artistic Director, Wilma Smith, has confirmed the 7-person international jury for the competition. String quartets and piano trios worldwide are invited to apply via the Acceptd platform – applications open 13 July and close 30 September. Travel support and accommodation will be provided for successful applicants.

©WFIMC 2026