The Leslie Barklamb Scholarship is the Victorian Flute Guild’s premier annual award, named in honour of renowned flautist and educator Leslie Barklamb, founder of the Guild and a pioneer of flute playing in Australia.
Established in 1973, the scholarship was created to encourage and support the next generation of talented flautists. It offers a platform for young players to perform in a formal setting, receive feedback from experienced adjudicators, and compete for recognition across a range of age groups and abilities.
Structure of the Scholarship
The scholarship is open to school-aged flute players across Victoria, with multiple categories based on age and experience. Sections typically include:
-
-
11 Years and Under
-
13 Years and Under
-
15 Years and Under (including the Margaret Brooke Award)
-
VCE/IB
-
Intermediate
-
Senior
-
The scholarship process is held in two stages:
Preliminary Rounds
Held in late August, the preliminary rounds are where all candidates first perform. These auditions determine:
-
-
Winners of the junior sections (11, 13, and 15 years and under), and
-
Finalists for the VCE/IB, Intermediate, and Senior sections.
-
Performances are adjudicated by leading Australian flautists and educators.
Finals Concert
The Finals Concert takes place in early September. It features:
-
-
Performances by junior section winners, showcasing their chosen works and the set piece for the following year’s competition, and
-
Live competition between the finalists of the senior sections.
-
The concert is a celebration of excellence and musical growth, with awards presented at its conclusion.
Upcoming Scholarship Events
52nd Annual Leslie Barklamb Scholarship – Preliminary Rounds
52nd Annual Leslie Barklamb Scholarship – Finals Concert
Recent Scholarship Results
2024 Leslie Barklamb Scholarship Competition Winners