Published Wednesday, 22 July, 2026 at 02:15 PM

Minister for Education and the Arts
The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek

Top school musicians ensemble after record year of participation

  • The Crisafulli Government continues to deliver opportunities for Queensland’s talented student musicians with the 2026 Creative Generation Instrumental Fanfare finals returning to Brisbane. 
  • A record number of more than 33,000 talented students from 480 State schools performed for the Instrumental Fanfare with 10 successful ensembles reaching the finals. 
  • The public is invited to the State’s finalists’ performances at Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University on 13 and 14 August.  

A record number of Queensland State schools’ talented young musicians have competed in the 2026 Creative Generation Instrumental Fanfare with 10 outstanding ensembles soon to take the spotlight at the State finals. 

More than 33,000 State school students from 480 schools performed at more than 85 regional festivals across 20 days, highlighting the exceptional quality of instrumental music education in Queensland.  

Tickets are now available for the public to attend the State final concerts, which features separate primary and secondary performances, at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University on 13 and 14 August.         

Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said Instrumental Fanfare had a long and proud history in Queensland. 

“Since Fanfare began in 1985, it has played an important role in supporting school ensembles and celebrating student achievement in instrumental music,” Minister Langbroek said.  

“The Crisafulli Government is continuing to deliver programs like Instrumental Fanfare to give students incredible opportunities to shine in music and the arts.  

“This is part of our plan to deliver a world-class education to young Queenslanders, and this competition showcases the exceptional standard of musical talent in State schools right across the Queensland. 

“This year’s finals bring together 10 outstanding school ensembles and create a memorable opportunity for students to perform in front of enthusiastic audiences. 

“We’re pleased to once again partner with the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University to host the State final concerts.” 

The Most Outstanding Performance Award - the highest honour in Instrumental Fanfare - will be presented to one primary and one secondary ensemble. The winning primary ensemble will also be invited to open the secondary State final concert on 14 August.  

Tickets for the concerts are now available to the public on the website.  

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACT: Kate Rogers, 0426 414 298 

The Instrumental Fanfare finalists for 2026 are: 

Primary – to be held on 13 August 

School 

Ensemble 

Edge Hill State School 

Percussion Ensemble 

Ironside State School 

Chamber Strings 

MacGregor State School 

Wind Symphony 

Robina State School 

Senior Strings 

Stretton State College 

Gowan Symphonia Strings 

 

Secondary – to be held on 14 August 

School 

Ensemble 

Brisbane State High School 

Kurilpa String Orchestra 

Cairns State High School 

Symphony Orchestra 

Centenary Heights State High School 

Stage Band 

Palm Beach-Currumbin State High School 

Optima Wind Ensemble 

Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology 

Curlew String Ensemble