Besançon international Competition for Young Conductors

This biennial French conducting competition for those aged 35 and under is part of the Besançon International Music Festival and puts its candidates through their paces with a wide repertoire ranging from classical to contemporary, including concerto and opera.
Conductors are chosen not based not on existing diplomas or training but through live pre-selections for 270 candidates, organized in different cities around the world.
The Grand Prix has : €12,000, Advice and coaching, professional integration and a prestigious LIP watch.
The audience is called to vote to award the “Coup de coeur du public” (audience’s favorite). Musicians of the orchestra of the Final are also be called to vote to designate the “Coup de coeur de l’orchestre” (orchestra’s favorite). The jury can also award a Special Mention endowed with €3,000.