350 Candidates from 54 Countries for the Svetlanov International Conducting Competition

The application period for the 6th Evgeny Svetlanov International Conducting Competition in Birmingham has now officially closed. 

We are pleased to announce that, despite the difficult international context and the global attention currently focused on political crises, the Svetlanov Competition received around 350 applications from 54 countries across Europe, Asia, North America, South America, and Africa, highlighting the desire of the international music community to come together through music and to remain part of a shared international artistic world.

Applicants range in age from 20 to 40 years old, reflecting a wide diversity of artistic and professional backgrounds — from emerging conductors at the outset of their international careers to more established musicians already active on the professional scene.

A particularly strong level of interest was observed from the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

This year, we also noted an increase in applications from women conductors, who represent 15% of total applications, reflecting a gradual and meaningful evolution within the conducting profession.

We warmly thank all applicants for their commitment, artistic dedication, and the high quality of the materials submitted.

The selection process now begins. Results will be announced between June 1 and June 5, 2026, on the official website.

The official press conference of the 6th Evgeny Svetlanov International Conducting Competition will take place at Maison de la Radio in Paris on June 9, 2026.

We kindly invite members of the press to save the date. Further details will follow in due course.