Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the Musicians’ Agency?
A. Launched by the University of Melbourne’s School of Music (Parkville), the Agency’s goal is to provide performance and other professional development opportunities for students completing their tertiary studies in Music. Located within the Conservatorium building on the University’s Parkville campus, the Agency provides a convenient point of contact for the School’s talented students, and for the numerous enquiries for musicians that we receive from the public. The Musicians’ Agency is a complimentary service.
Q. What types of musicians do you represent?
A. For formal occasions, we offer an array of classical soloists and small ensembles: recital pianists, violinists and cellists, harpists, a cappella groups, brass duos, string quartets, flute trios and early music performers. Or for musicians of true versatility, check the contemporary music section of our website for acoustic guitarists, gypsy jazz ensembles, swing, Latin, funk, fusion or contemporary pop groups. Have something different in mind? Requests for particular instrument groups, or styles of music can often be accommodated. Contact the Agency to discuss your options.
Q. How do I confirm the availability of a musician?
A. The Musicians’ Agency is a complimentary referral service and you will need to contact the musicians directly to confirm their availability. Please visit a musician’s individual web profile page or contact the Musicians’ Agency to be put in touch with particular performers.
Q. How can I be assured of the quality of the musicians?
A. Our musicians are selected from the accomplished performers of the University of Melbourne’s School of Music (Parkville). Along with their extensive tertiary studies, scholarships and awards, many of these students also work with prominent Australian performance companies such as Melbourne Chamber Orchestra, Victorian Opera, Australian Youth Orchestra, and various university and state Symphony Orchestras. Noted for their dedication, professionalism and high musical standards, the Musicians’ Agency performers number amongst Australia’s finest emerging artists.
Q. Can I hear a demo of the performer?
A. Yes, audio samples are now available on the majority of the musicians’ profile pages; please feel free to assess for quality or just to enjoy.
Q. What are the fees?
A. As the Musicians’ Agency is a complimentary referral service provided by the School of Music (Parkville), we require no money from you, nor do we charge the students any administrative fees. All performance monies are paid directly to the musicians, and therefore you help to support Australia’s developing artists. For this reason please arrange all financial details with the musicians themselves. The Musicians’ Agency can provide you with a guide to the level of fees you may anticipate.
For performances held well beyond Melbourne’s central business district, please note that additional amounts may be charged in order to compensate the musicians for their time spent in transit. Performances of specific pieces of music can also generally be arranged, and may be subject to an associated increase in cost. Please discuss all of your requirements with the musicians.
Q. Is there anything I need to provide the musicians with?
A. The musicians will each require an armless chair, and for outdoor events protection from the elements is necessary. Even on fine days, the musicians’ expensive instruments will need shade from the sun, otherwise some interesting tuning could result! Please provide the musicians with water or other beverages to drink and for performances over three hour periods the offer of a meal would be appreciated. Contemporary groups will likely require access to electricity outlets. Upon confirmation of a booking you may be required to place a deposit.
Q. What if my chosen musician in unavailable?
Don’t hesitate to contact us again, as we have many gifted performers registered with the Agency. We can arrange for a suitable replacement, or simply discuss the type of music that would best make your event a great success.
Q. Can you suggest performers to suit my event’s requirements?
A. We’d be happy to help. Please feel welcome to phone the Musicians’ Agency on 8344 7657 or email: musicians-agency@unimelb.edu.au