International Conductors Contest WMC 2026
Develop your talent. Lead the world of wind music. Inspire your audience.
The International Conductors Contest at the World Music Contest (WMC) 2026 in Kerkrade is the place where young conductors can grow, learn, and stand out.
Take part in the prestigious International Conductors Contest during WMC and shape your future as a professional conductor.
Nurture your talent. Grow alongside the world’s finest.
Since 1970, the Conductors Contest has been an important part of the World Music Contest (WMC). The event offers young conductors an international stage to showcase their skills, gain experience with professional wind orchestras, and receive direct feedback from an expert international jury.
The WMC is committed to fostering the development of professional conducting talent - an investment in the future of wind music.
Structure of the International Conductors Contest WMC 2026
The WMC Conductors Contest consists of three phases: the Selection Round, Semi-Final, and Final.
Each phase offers a unique conducting experience with leading ensembles and professional orchestras.
Selection Round – 14 to 16 July 2026
📍 Aula Major, Rolduc Abbey
🎵 Helicon Wind Ensemble
- 16 participants
- Works:
- Mozart – Serenade No. 12 in C minor, K 388
- Stravinsky – Octet for Wind Instruments
- Ibert – Concerto for Cello and Wind Instruments
After the final session, Jury Team A will select six semi-finalists.
Semi-Final – 20 July 2026
📍 Theatre Kerkrade
🎵 Royal Military Band ‘Johan Willem Friso’
- 6 participants
- Works:
- Nitescence crépusculaire – Alexandre Kosmicki
- Let My Love Be Heard – Jake Runestad
After the semi-final, Jury Team B will select three finalists.
Final – 21 & 22 July 2026
📍 Roda hall, Kerkrade
🎵 Royal Military Band ‘Johan Willem Friso’
Final Rehearsal – 21 July
- 3 participants, 60 minutes of conducting time each
- Final works (drawn by lot):
- Traveler - David Maslanka
- Transitions - Henk Badings
- Danse Funambulesque- Jules Strens (version Gert Buitenhuis)
Final Concert – 22 July, 8:00 pm
- 3 finalists performing live before an audience
- Followed by a concert by the Royal Military Band ‘Johan Willem Friso’
Become a participant!
Are you an ambitious conductor with international aspirations?
Take part in the International Conductors Contest WMC 2026 and join a unique musical journey filled with challenge, feedback, and growth. Registration opens in November 2025 via the online platform My WMC. Create your account now and become part of the international WMC community.
Participation requirements & schedule
- Maximum age: 35 years on 1 January 2026
- Registration period: 15 November 2025 – 15 January 2026
- Announcement of the 16 selected participants: 15 February 2026
What participants receive
- Personal feedback from an international panel of jury members
- An official WMC Certificate of Participation
Prepare for an international experience that will accelerate your conducting career.
Take the stage, challenge yourself, and lead the music of tomorrow.
