Tonight | ABC Young Performers on ABC: three finalists play for the 2026 award – ABC Young Performers brings the 2026 Grand Final to television tonight. Three exceptional young musicians take the stage at the Sydney Opera House. The broadcast airs at 8.50pm on ABC and ABC iview.
The finalists perform live with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Conductor in Residence Benjamin Northey.
The ABC Young Performers Awards are Australia’s premier national platform for emerging classical musicians.
Three rounds to the Grand Final
To reach this point, the young instrumentalists have come through three high-stakes rounds. Along the way, they showed their artistry, technical brilliance and musical expression.
Each round was judged by a distinguished, multi-disciplinary panel. Now the journey ends with a spectacular Grand Final.
A concerto with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Each finalist plays a concerto alongside the Orchestra. It is a big test, with a full orchestra and a packed Opera House behind them.
The three finalists are competing for a share of the $60,000 prize pool. They also have the chance to win other career-launching opportunities.
At the end of the night, the winner of the 2026 Young Performer Awards is revealed. For classical music fans, it is a chance to hear the next generation of Australian talent.
The broadcast also gives viewers a seat at one of the most important nights on the classical calendar. Performing a concerto with a major orchestra is a huge moment for any young musician.
Don’t miss the ABC Young Performers Grand Final, Thursday 5 November at 8.50pm on ABC and streaming on ABC iview.
Read more ABC highlights on TV Central, and watch on ABC iview.