Are there any novelties /new aspects of your Competition that you have introduced or will introduce? Conducting is an incredibly complex profession. We aim to carry forward Maestro Svetlanov’s motto: “A vast distance separates the mere technical ability to conduct an orchestra from the true mastery of musical interpretation.” This year’s competition embraces a spirit of versatility — a quality that is now essential for today’s conductors. Their artistry will be assessed across both symphonic and operatic repertoires, reflecting the wide range of skills demanded by the profession. We are also placing a stronger emphasis on public engagement. The Semifinal and Final rounds will be open to audiences and streamed worldwide — live and on replay — via medici.tv, giving viewers across the globe the opportunity to vote for their favourite candidate. Few people know that Maestro Svetlanov composed 175 works—including symphonic, chamber, vocal, and piano music—as well as numerous transcriptions. According to our rules, each finalist is required to perform one of Maestro Svetlanov’s symphonic works during the Finals. This year, the finalists will perform his Symphony.
About the Competition
The Competition was created in accordance with the wishes of Maestro Evgeny Svetlanov and was founded in 2007. Its core mission was inspired by the extraordinary legacy of Svetlanov—one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century: conductor, composer, and pianist. Evgeny Svetlanov once said, “Art will reward those who serve it wholeheartedly.” This is why the requirements have always been set high for our competition. We aim to reveal talents who are not only passionate about music, but who also strive for excellence, seek knowledge and share it, and embody the humanistic and educational values that Maestro Svetlanov considered inseparable from the art of conducting. Our mission is to provide them a platform to express their artistry in the best conditions. From the very beginning, our goal has been to bring together leading orchestras, world- renowned jury members, and prestigious musical institutions. Another defining feature of the competition is its international nature—it has been held in different countries and in collaboration with various orchestras, a reflection of our commitment to diversity and openness.
Tell us a little about the venue of the Competition?
What are your expectations for the membership in the WFIMC?
The 6th edition will take place in Birmingham, in partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, one of the finest European ensembles. The performances will be held at Symphony Hall, a venue acclaimed for its outstanding acoustics, offering candidates an unforgettable experience. Maestro Svetlanov gave his last concert in the United Kingdom, in London. We are proud to bring the competition to the UK— an artistic bridge that continues to grow stronger.
The year 2025 marks our membership in the World Federation of International Music Competitions. We are honoured to join a community that brings together leading international competitions and fosters dialogue across the classical music world. For us, this is a significant recognition of our work, and we look forward to contributing our values, expertise, and vision to this esteemed network.
New Member Competitions
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