Allan Zavod Performers’ Award
About the Award
The Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music and Performance is pleased to continue the Allan Zavod Performers’ Award in 2026 for composer-performers whose work incorporates improvisation. Composer-performers working in any musical genre(s)are invited to apply. A cash prize of $5000 and runner-up prizes totalling $5000 will be awarded to musicians who demonstrate excellence in composition, performance and improvisation.
Entry and judging criteria
This prestigious award is open to all Monash University undergraduate, Honours and Postgraduate students who have been resident in Australia for a minimum of two years at the closing date.
Applicants may present solo works or perform with up to four (4) additional artists. The original composition must be performed by the composer. The maximum performance time is 10 mins.
Up to four (4) finalists will be selected to perform their submitted composition as part of the Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music and Performance Lunchtime Concert Series, on Thursday 22 October 2026. The winner and runner(s)-up will be announced at the end of the event by the judging panel. The decision of the judges is final, and the panel reserves the right not to award the prize(s).
Submission requirements
- Score of the original work (.pdf)
- Audio realisation of the submitted work
- A short program note describing the work
- Supporting links (eg. artist website, YouTube, examples of past work)
- List of any relevant technical or electronic requirements for performance of the work
Award
A cash prize of $5000 and runner-up prizes totalling $5000 will be awarded to musicians who demonstrate excellence in composition, performance and improvisation.
Submission deadline
Important dates
Applications due: Tuesday 1 September 2026, 11.59pm AEST
Finalists notified: Monday 21 September 2026
Finalists Concert: Thursday 22 October 2026, 1 - 2pm (Auditorium). Soundcheck between 11.30 - 12.30pm.
Inquiries
If you have questions about this award, please contact Dr Paul Williamson at Paul.Williamson@monash.edu.