Thousands of young musicians hit the stage this week for the largest music festival in the Southern Hemisphere – the 2026 Queensland Catholic Schools and Colleges Music Festival. Source: Brisbane Catholic Education.
Aspiring singers and songwriters, future conductors, musicians, performers and talented students from across 74 Brisbane Catholic Education schools, 17 religious institute schools from Brisbane, three Toowoomba schools, five Central Queensland schools, one school from Cairns, and even two from New Zealand, all came together for the festival, hosted by Villanova College, Coorparoo.
Villanova College director of music and QCMF artistic director Michael Jones said the event brings thousands of young musicians into harmony for four days of performances spanning classical and contemporary genres.
“From choirs and concert bands to jazz ensembles, string orchestras, percussion groups and contemporary music acts, QCMF showcases the breadth and diversity of music education taking place in schools across the state,” he said.
Mt Maria College, Mitchelton principal Luke Reed said the event offered a powerful way for students to express themselves, build confidence and develop skills that extend far beyond the rehearsal room or stage.
“At Mt Maria College, we are proud to offer a diverse music program of a truly exceptional calibre that allows students of all abilities and interests to find their place, whether that’s in a choir, concert band, string ensemble, contemporary bands, drumline or one of our many other performance groups,” he said.
“Events like QCMF give students the opportunity to perform alongside their peers, learn from other schools and experience the excitement of being part of something much bigger than themselves.
“Those experiences create lasting memories, inspire personal growth and help students develop a lifelong appreciation for music.”
Brisbane Catholic Education sponsored the event, supporting opportunities for students to perform on one of the state’s biggest stages for school musicians.
The festival’s 35-year success reflects the importance of music in shaping confident, creative, and connected young people.
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