80th Concours de Genève
Semi-finals of the 2025-2026 Orchestra Conducting Competition
A true institution that makes Geneva a major centre of classical music, the Concours de Genève has been one of the most important international music competitions since it was founded in 1939. Young talents dedicated to a musical career know it well: it is a formidable springboard onto the international stage. Each year, two disciplines are on the programme. Its 80th edition is dedicated to composition and orchestral conducting — a first for the latter since 1994!
On Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 November, two of the three semi-finals of the Orchestra Conducting Competition will be held in public. Suspense and tension born of competition await us, but also pleasure and wonder: these atypical concerts are a fine opportunity, for inexperienced ears and seasoned ones alike, to discover young artists, excerpts from works, and to hear renowned ensembles.
Next performances
Rates and offers
Full price
from CHF 20.- to 35.-
Book for one or two public sessions
Reduced rate
from CHF 10.- to 29.-
Book for one or two public sessions
OASI, unemployment benefit, 20ans20francs, friends of the Concours de Genève, OCG subscribers, ages 13-20, students (under 25)
Open rehearsals
On the occasion of the Concours de Genève, the public is invited to attend rehearsals of the Orchestre de Chambre de Genève and Ensemble Contrechamps. A privileged opportunity to discover what goes on behind the scenes of the Orchestra Conducting Competition, to observe the work between the young conductors and the musicians, and to better understand how the interpretation and conducting of a musical work come together.
Semi-finalists of the 2025-2026 Orchestra Conducting Competition
Alejandro Cantalapiedra, Jacobus De Jager, Michal Oren, Gabriel Pernet, Mats Thiersch, Leonard Weiss.
Waiting list : Simon Schmied, Giovanni Fanizz
With
Orchestre de Chambre de Genève and Ensemble Contrechamps
Founded in 1939, the Concours de Genève is one of the most important international music competitions. Its aim is to discover, promote and support young talents, giving them the tools they need to build an international career. Each year, two disciplines are offered in rotation, including piano, flute, oboe, clarinet, cello, viola, string quartet, voice, percussion, orchestral conducting and composition.
The Concours de Genève was founded in 1939 as the Concours International d'Exécution Musicale (CIEM). In 1957, it became one of the founding members of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC), whose headquarters are also in Geneva.
Get in touch
By phone
Monday to Thursday, 2–5 pm
+41 (0)22 795 00 04