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Trondheim, Norway

Trondheim Welcomes a New Generation of Conductors

Agenda
Federation

From 24–27 August 2026, the Princess Astrid International Music Competition presents its live competition rounds along with a Conductor’s Forum Academy — a new, professional-development programme presented in collaboration with the WFIMC.

This year, Trondheim Symfoniorkester & Opera invites conductors under 35 to contend for the 2026 Princess Astrid International Music Competition, adjudicated by an international jury chaired by Oksana Lyniv. The first prize of NOK 200,000 (approximately €17,400) is accompanied by a concert engagement with the orchestra and mentorship with Chief Conductor Adam Hickox; second and third prizes are NOK 50,000 (≈ €4,350) and NOK 25,000 (≈ €2,175) respectively. The competition’s ethos—“Conduct. Compete. Connect.”—reflects its dual commitment to artistic excellence and career development, offering winners both financial support and concrete professional opportunity.

The Trondheim Symphony Orchestra, one of Norways oldest professional ensembles, provides an ideal partner for the competition repertoire and finalists’ performances. Trondheim itself, a city of deep historical roots on the Trondheim Fjord and home to a prominent university and lively cultural scene, supplies an urbane yet intimate context in which young conductors can present their craft to industry figures and an international audience.

Trondheim Impressions- ©N.Glauber/travelita

Running in parallel with the public rounds, the Conductor’s Forum Academy—presented in collaboration with the World Federation of International Music Competitions—offers a concentrated programme of perspectives and practical learning framed around key aspects of contemporary conducting. Faculty and contributors include Oksana Lyniv, Martyn Brabbins, Mei-Ann Chen, Simon Rössler and others. Moderating the programme will be Florian Riem. 

Sessions address the evolving role of the conductor, communication from the podium and methods for building trust with musicians and soloists, as well as strategic pathways such as international auditions, academy systems and competition landscapes. The Academy then concludes with an intensive masterclass led by Oksana Lyniv and the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra.

Designed to be both rigorous and pragmatic, the Academy combines panel discussions with direct rehearsal and masterclass opportunities. For emerging conductors seeking high-level exposure and actionable career support, the Princess Astrid Competition and its Conductor’s Forum Academy present a rare, concentrated moment of mentorship, scrutiny and public performance in one of the most beautiful and storied Scandianvian cities.

For more information, visit https://tso.no/competition

©WFIMC 2025/fr