Some of the world's most exciting emerging orchestral conductors will take to the podium at Symphony Hall Birmingham this September as the prestigious 6th Evgeny Svetlanov International Conducting Competition makes its UK debut.

Held every four years and regarded as one of the world's leading conducting competitions, the internationally acclaimed event will take place in Birmingham from 3–6 September, with the Semi-finals and Finals open to the public at Symphony Hall on 5 and 6 September.

Presented in partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), the competition offers  audiences a rare opportunity to witness the next generation of international conducting talent before many go on to enjoy major careers with the world's leading orchestras.

Founded in 2007 in accordance with the wishes of legendary Russian conductor and composer Evgeny Svetlanov, the competition is dedicated to discovering, supporting and promoting exceptional young conductors. Previous editions have taken place in Luxembourg, Montpellier, Paris and Monte-Carlo, making Birmingham the first UK city to host this prestigious international event.

Nearly 350 conductors from 54 countries applied to take part in the 2026 competition, with just 18 conductors representing 15 nationalities selected to compete across three rounds with the CBSO under the artistic direction of René Koering.

For the first time in the competition's history, audiences are invited to attend from the Semi-finals onwards, offering an unprecedented chance to experience the intensity, artistry and excitement of an international conducting competition from inside one of the world's finest concert halls.

Each performance will reveal a different musical interpretation and artistic personality as competitors lead the CBSO through a demanding symphonic repertoire. At the conclusion of the Finals, audiences at Symphony Hall will also vote for the Audience Prize, recognising their favourite conductor.

The competition will be judged by a distinguished international jury chaired by acclaimed conductor Bertrand de Billy, with CBSO Music Director Kazuki Yamada among the jury members.

Since its launch in 2007, more than 80% of participants have gone on to establish international conducting careers, cementing the competition's reputation as one of classical music's foremost launching pads for emerging talent.

The competition will also be streamed worldwide via medici.tv, allowing audiences across the globe to follow Birmingham's hosting of this major international musical event. Whether you're a lifelong classical music enthusiast or simply curious to discover the stars of tomorrow, the Evgeny Svetlanov International Conducting Competition promises a weekend of exceptional music-making, artistic discovery and unforgettable performances.

The 6th Evgeny Svetlanov International Conducting Competition semi-finals take place on Saturday 5 September and the fiinals take place on Sunday 6 September 2026 at Symphony Hall. Tickets are available here.