Established in 1951, the International Competition for Young Conductors has quickly become the most prestigious event of its kind. It features a comprehensive array of classical, romantic, 20th-century repertoire, contemporary music, opera, and concerts. The Besançon competition is open to all artists under 35 who aspire to a career as professional conductors, regardless of their background, education, or experience, as no prior diploma is required.

Unlike other competitions, the Besançon competition selects candidates through live auditions rather than application screening. Over 300 aspiring conductors have the opportunity to present themselves in cities such as Paris, Besançon, Montreal, Berlin, and Seoul, accompanied by two pianists and assessed by a panel of professionals.

Participants are required to conduct two pianists performing symphonic works in piano arrangements. They have a limited time to impress the jury, which includes renowned French conductor Jean-François Verdier and South Korean violinist Jaewon Kim, concertmaster of the Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse.

Following this round, only 20 candidates will advance to the finals with orchestras held in September in Besançon, performing before an international jury led by Danish conductor Michael Schønwandt.

The selection trials in Berlin are accessible to a small audience, providing a chance to discover emerging talent.

This year's program includes:

• Igor Stravinsky – The Rite of Spring
• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Symphony No. 38 "Prague"

Schedule:

• 12:30 Entry for members of the Institut français Berlin (last admission: 12:45)
• 12:55 Opening remarks by Jean-Michel Mathé, Director
• 13:00 Start of the auditions
• 14:30 Conclusion

Admission is free.