championships
alex rathgeber vocal championship
Beginning in 2019, this award is sponsored by the Horsham Arts Council in conjunction with the WME. It is named after our Patron, Alex Rathgeber who grew up as a child in Horsham and was involved with the Horsham Arts Council as a junior performer. As a youngster, Alex also had his introduction to music and performance as a competitor in the Wimmera Music Eisteddfod, an opportunity he is still grateful for. Since those early beginnings Alex has gone on to have a professional career which has taken him to stages across Australia and around the world, working with brilliantly talented and inspiring artists from all types of musical backgrounds.
Competitors in this award are expected to be of an advanced standard and perform a repertoire of three contrasting pieces, with a time limit of 12 minutes.
ann adler memorial event
Beginning in 2023, this award is sponsored by the Adler family (Stephanie, Richard & Justine) in honour of their mother Ann. Ann was a revered senior piano teacher who taught throughout the Wimmera for many years with much of her career being at the Horsham Music Academy from 1989 – 2009. She set high expectations for her students and many of them were encouraged to complete AMEB exams and to compete in Eisteddfods including the Wimmera Music Eisteddfod. She loved connecting with her students, imparting her wisdom and seeing them shine and grow; some of which have gone on to become performers and educators themselves.
Competitors in this award are expected to be of an advanced standard and perform a repertoire of two contrasting pieces, with a time limit of 12 minutes.