Masterclass in Helsinki, Finland February 17–21, 2025

Ten participants will get an intense masterclass experience over five days in Helsinki, Finland, working with maestro Sasha Mäkilä and Helsinki Metropolitan Orchestra. The course consists of four rehearsals and a public concert as well as technique sessions together with our faculty pianist every day before the rehearsal.

Each participant will enjoy a minimum of 20 minutes daily podium time with the orchestra, plus the concert on February 21st. The focus of the masterclass will be conducting technique and communication skills with the orchestra. Participants are allowed to videotape all the sessions. Participants who are string players are encouraged to bring their instrument and join the orchestra during the rehearsals as well as in concert.

PROGRAM:

Madetoja: Elegia
Mozart: Overture “Idomeneo”
Dvorak: Serenade for Strings in E major
Beethoven: Symphony No. 1
+ possibly a short piece with a soloist TBA

ORCHESTRA:

Helsinki Metropolitan Orchestra was founded in 2017 by a group of professional musicians, music students and dedicated amateurs. It plays symphonic concerts and takes part in opera productions and other events in the Helsinki metropolitan area.

https://metorchestra.fi/en/home/

VENUES:

Piano sessions at Käpylä Music School, Käpylänkuja 1
Orchestra rehearsals at Koskela Church, Käpyläntie 11
Concert at the Laajasalo Church, Reposalmentie 13

SCHEDULE:

Mon Feb 17: At 12 registration at Käpylänkuja 1, 13-15 piano session, 17-21 orchestra
Tue Feb 18: 13-15 piano session, 17-21 orchestra
Wed Feb 19: 13-15 piano session, 17-21 orchestra
Thu Feb 20: 13-15 piano session, 17-21 orchestra
Fri Feb 21: dress rehearsal at 16, concert at 19, feedback session and afterparty

FEES:

The course fee is €1350 total, consisting of a €100 reservation fee and the remaining €1250 to be paid before or on the first day of the masterclass. You can also take part as a passive participant in which case the fee will be €200.

For this masterclass there is a €95 discount for the members of the International Conductors Guild who register as active participants. If you are not yet a member, you can join easily through the website https://www.internationalconductorsguild.org

LODGING:

Each participant will take care of their accommodation by themselves, but there are plenty of options in the Helsinki area. Consider sharing accommodation with other students to economise.

DEADLINE:

The applications for this very popular masterclass will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Final deadline for the applications is January 17, 2025.

FACULTY:

Sasha Mäkilä
Taru Ritavesi (piano)

Application