Luzerner Sinfonieorchester startet einen neuen Dirigierwettbewerb

In a significant development for emerging conductors worldwide, the Luzerner Sinfonieorchester has unveiled plans to host a new international competition dedicated to young maestros. This initiative, spearheaded by the Thomas and Doris Ammann Stiftung, aims to create a recurring platform to identify and promote conducting talent.

Named the Thomas and Doris Ammann Prize for Young Conductors, the inaugural event is scheduled to take place in Lucerne from June 24 to June 27, 2027. Following its premiere, the competition will be held every two years, establishing a long-term commitment to nurturing the next generation of conductors.

The foundation behind this project, honoring the legacy of the late Zurich art dealers Thomas and Doris Ammann, guarantees funding for the competition’s first ten editions, ensuring financial stability through 2045. This backing enables the awarding of three prizes totaling 90,000 Swiss francs, providing substantial support for early-career conductors.

A distinguished jury will oversee the competition, led by the Italian conductor Fabio Luisi, whose extensive experience with conducting contests and mentorship roles brings authoritative guidance to the panel. Alongside Luisi, the jury includes key figures such as Numa Bischof Ullmann, the artistic director of the Luzerner Sinfonieorchester, and the orchestra’s chief conductor Michael Sanderling, supplemented by other experts from the classical music field.

Participation will be selective, with a maximum of 14 candidates invited to perform with the Luzerner Sinfonieorchester during the competition days. These finalists will be chosen through a preliminary screening process, ensuring a high caliber of contenders.

The creation of this competition marks a strategic addition to the classical music landscape, offering aspiring conductors a rare opportunity to showcase their skills in a professional orchestral environment. It also reinforces Lucerne’s position as a vibrant center for musical innovation and education.

While specific details about the application process and repertoire requirements have yet to be announced, the competition’s biennial rhythm and substantial prize fund are poised to attract promising talent globally. This initiative reflects a broader trend within the classical music community to invest in young artists and foster the continuity of conducting excellence.

The Luzerner Sinfonieorchester’s engagement with this project highlights the orchestra’s dedication not only to performance but also to artistic mentorship and leadership development. By collaborating closely with the Thomas and Doris Ammann Stiftung, the orchestra ensures that emerging conductors receive both recognition and meaningful career support.

As the 2027 event approaches, further information will likely be published to assist applicants and audiences. For now, the announcement signals an exciting new chapter in the cultivation of conducting talent, with Lucerne at its heart.