The Siemens-Hallé International Conductors Competition has announced its eight finalists for the 2026 competition, selected from over 270 applicants from six continents. The competition aims to provide a platform for emerging conductors to launch their careers and establish themselves on the world stage. The eight finalists, aged 18 and above, are from various countries including the UK, Switzerland, Germany, Finland, Ukraine, and China.
The competition will culminate in a public final round on March 31, 2026, at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, where three finalists will compete for the top prize. The first prize winner will become the Assistant Conductor of the Hallé Orchestra for a three-year period, working closely with the orchestra’s Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor, Kahchun Wong. The winner will also serve as Music Director of the Hallé Youth Orchestra, providing valuable experience and exposure.
The jury for the 2026 competition consists of renowned music professionals, including David Butcher, Anna Hirst, Kahchun Wong, Stephan Frucht, and Ilona Schmiel. The competition offers a significant career boost, with the first prize winner receiving a coveted position with the Hallé Orchestra, and the second and third place winners receiving cash prizes of £2,000 and £1,000, respectively.
The competition has a proven track record of launching the careers of talented conductors, with previous winners Delyana Lazarova and Euan Shields achieving success and recognition on the global stage. The Hallé’s CEO, David Butcher, expressed his delight at the competition’s growth and the opportunity to provide a platform for emerging conductors to refine their craft. The program’s artistic director, Stephan Frucht, also highlighted the importance of the competition in fostering musical leadership and excellence.
Euan Shields, the 2023 winner, reflected on his experience with the Hallé Orchestra, describing it as “unforgettable” and praising the orchestra’s warmth, musicianship, and generosity. The competition is a testament to the Hallé Orchestra’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for emerging conductors to shine. With its strong reputation and prestigious prizes, the Siemens-Hallé International Conductors Competition is an exciting opportunity for talented conductors to take their careers to the next level.