We are delighted to announce a new Finnish Conducting School masterclass in collaboration with Sofia Sinfonietta, a fully professional symphony orchestra based in Sofia, Bulgaria. This intensive summer course runs from June 30 to July 4, 2026, and offers an immersive experience in rehearsal, technique, and performance.
This masterclass follows the familiar pedagogical concept of the Finnish Conducting School: conductors work daily with a professional orchestra, receive focused feedback and guidance in technique, rehearsal strategy, and musical communication, and conclude the course with a public final concert on July 4, 2026.
While most days include orchestra rehearsals and podium time, July 1 will be dedicated to piano sessions, score work, and video feedback without the orchestra. On all other days, each active participant is guaranteed a minimum of 20 minutes of podium time with the orchestra per day, culminating in participation in the final concert.
This masterclass is ideal for advanced conducting students, emerging professional conductors, and experienced musicians seeking focused development with a symphony orchestra. The course builds on the Finnish Conducting School’s commitment to orchestral training and mentorship, offering both technical depth and artistic insight in collaboration with a fully professional ensemble. We look forward to welcoming conductors from around the world to Sofia this summer.
REPERTOIRE
– Beethoven: Symphony No. 4
– Beethoven: Violin Concerto – 1st movement
– Grieg: Holberg Suite
ORCHESTRA
Sofia Sinfonietta is a fully professional orchestra based in the Bulgarian capital.
http://oki-nadejda.com/en/main-page/музикални-състави/симфониета-софия/
VENUE
All sessions, rehearsals, and the final concert will take place at Nadezhda Cultural Center, located next to the Han Kubrat metro station.
Address: 2 Lomsko Shosse Street, Sofia
FEES
The total course fee for an active participant is €1600, with an early bird rate of €1500 currently available.
To secure a place on the masterclass, a €600 deposit is required.
Passive participant: €200
DEADLINE
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Early Bird deadline: April 1, 2026
After that, applications will be accepted until the course is full.
LODGING
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. Sofia offers a wide range of affordable hotels, and public transportation is efficient and convenient. Participants are also encouraged to explore Airbnb and couch-surfing options.