With the goal of fostering the development of emerging talents in the field of orchestral conducting, Gulbenkian Música will host a masterclass for conductors under the guidance of Lawrence Foster.

Combining specialized training with practical orchestral experience, this masterclass offers a unique professional development opportunity for musicians with some conducting experience who wish to refine their technical and artistic skills.

Following the thorough preparation of an extensive repertoire (ranging from the Classical period to the 20th century) and preliminary conducting sessions with two pianos, participants will have the opportunity to rehearse with the Gulbenkian Orchestra.

Throughout the masterclass, conductor Lawrence Foster will provide personalized and unique guidance, drawing on his expertise and adapting to the participants’ level of development.

The training period will culminate in a public concert with the Gulbenkian Orchestra, to be held at the Grand Auditorium on July 3, 2025.

Dates and venue

The masterclass will take place at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation (Avenida de Berna 45-A, 1067-001 Lisbon, Portugal) from June 28 to July 3, 2025.

Applications

All applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (GMT) on March 20, 2025, using the form available below. Applications submitted by any other means will not be considered valid. For any additional questions or clarifications, please contact [email protected].

Apply

 

Candidate selection

The masterclass is limited to six active participants and six listeners, selected through a competitive process. The selection will be based on the following materials, which applicants must submit with their application:

— One to three video recordings demonstrating their conducting skills with complete works or excerpts. The total duration of the recordings must not exceed 20 minutes
— Curriculum vitae, including a brief summary of orchestral experience and musical training
— Motivation letter

Masterclass repertoire

All participants must prepare the entire repertoire listed below to be qualified to conduct it with the Gulbenkian Orchestra.

Non-discriminatory policy

All qualified participants are encouraged to apply and will be considered regardless of their personal situation. If for some reason a participant has any constraints regarding his/her full involvement in this masterclass, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation will do its best to provide assistance and find solutions.