Ten active participants will enjoy an intensive five-day masterclass in Helsinki with maestro Sasha Mäkilä and the Helsinki Metropolitan Orchestra. The course includes four orchestra rehearsals, a public concert, and daily technique sessions with our faculty pianist in preparation for each rehearsal.
Each conductor is guaranteed a minimum of 20 minutes of podium time with the orchestra every day, plus a performance at the final concert on February 20. The focus of the masterclass will be on conducting technique and communication with the orchestra and the soloists. All sessions may be videotaped for personal study. String players are encouraged to bring their instrument and join the orchestra in rehearsals and in the concert.
PROGRAM:
Opera arias with the young singers of the Mirjam Helin Singing Academy (TBA)
Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, “Eroica”
ORCHESTRA:
The Helsinki Metropolitan Orchestra was founded in 2017 by a group of professional musicians, music students, and dedicated amateurs. The orchestra performs symphonic concerts, participates in opera productions, and is active in the wider Helsinki metropolitan area music scene.
VENUES:
Piano sessions: Käpylä Music School, Käpylänkuja 1
Orchestra rehearsals: Koskela Church, Käpyläntie 11
Concert: Temppeliaukio Church, Lutherinkatu 3 (city centre of Helsinki)
SCHEDULE:
Mon Feb 16: 12:00 registration (Käpylänkuja 1), 13:00–15:00 piano session, 17:00–21:00 orchestra
Tue Feb 17: 13:00–15:00 piano session, 17:00–21:00 orchestra
Wed Feb 18: 13:00–15:00 piano session, 17:00–21:00 orchestra
Thu Feb 19: 13:00–15:00 piano session, 17:00–21:00 orchestra
Fri Feb 20: 16:00 dress rehearsal, 19:00 concert, followed by feedback session and afterparty
FEES:
Active participant: €1350
€100 reservation fee upon acceptance
€1250 balance due before or on the first day of the course
Passive participant: €200
Discounts:
Super Early Bird: €1200 total if the full fee is paid by November 19, 2025.
International Conductors Guild members: €95 discount on the active participant fee.
www.internationalconductorsguild.org
LODGING:
Participants arrange their own accommodation, but Helsinki offers a wide range of options. Sharing with other students is encouraged to reduce costs.
DEADLINE:
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Final application deadline: January 16, 2026.
FACULTY:
Sasha Mäkilä
Taru Ritavesi (piano)