Course & Participation
1. Are there any preliminary screenings or written examinations required for applying to the Conducting Masterclass and Competition? Do I need to submit recordings of past concerts, graduation certificates from a music university, or letters of recommendation?
No preliminary screenings or written examinations are required for applying to the Conducting Masterclass and Competition.
As long as you have a basic understanding of music theory, anyone may participate until the maximum number of participants has been reached.
Recordings, graduation certificates, or letters of recommendation are not required; however, if you have them, you are welcome to submit them for our reference.
2. How much podium time with the orchestra is guaranteed for each participant?
Each participant is guaranteed the opportunity to conduct the orchestra in one of the closing concerts.
Participants assigned to Closing Concert 1 will receive at least 75 minutes of podium time (approximately 15 minutes per day).
Participants selected for the Gala Concert will receive up to 120 minutes (First Prize) or 95 minutes (Second and Third Prizes), including rehearsals.
Please note that these durations include both rehearsals and performance time and may vary depending on repertoire and scheduling.
3. Will each participant conduct in both Closing Concert 1 and the Gala Concert, or only one? How are these assignments determined?
Each participant will conduct in only one of the closing concerts. Assignments are based on the results of the Qualifying Round of the Kurt Redel Conducting Competition.
4. Will video or photographic documentation of the conducting sessions or concerts be provided?
Video, audio, and photographic documentation will be made. However, they are typically unedited and distributed a few weeks or months later. Participants are encouraged to make their own recordings if needed. Personal video, photo, and audio recording is allowed throughout the course and concerts. Edited documentation may be offered later at an additional cost.
5. How many total participants will the masterclass be limited to?
The maximum number of participants is 20 to 22. The minimum of 10 participants has already been reached.
6. How large will the orchestra and ensemble be?
Until May 6 (Closing Concert 1):
2-2-2-2 / 4-2-0-0 / Timp. / Strings: 6-5-4-3-2
From afternoon of May 6:
2-2-2-2 / 8-3-3-1 / Timp., 3 Perc., Harp, Piano /
Strings: 8-8-6-6-4
Travel & Logistics
7. Do you offer recommendations or assistance regarding nearby accommodation?
Yes, we provide support for travel planning and can recommend several hotels in the Saitama area. We also provide information about flights and transportation from the airport.
8. Are meals provided during the course?
No. Travel, accommodation, and meals are not included in the masterclass fee. There are several restaurants near the venue and a cafeteria on-site.
Fees & Payment
9. Will I receive a confirmation or receipt after payment is made?
Yes. We will confirm your payment and send a PDF receipt within one week. We can indicate the amount in EUR and optionally your local currency in brackets.
10. Is the course fee refundable if I am unable to attend?
Yes, according to the following policy:
• Full refund (excluding bank transfer fees) if cancelled by December 31, 2025
• Partial refund (minus €300) if cancelled by March 31, 2026
• No refund after April 1, 2026
Please notify us in writing if you wish to cancel.
11. Is there a minimum enrollment threshold?
The masterclass is confirmed. The minimum number of participants (10) has already been reached. If the number remains under 18, class time per day may be reduced, but each participant's podium time will remain unaffected.
Additional Opportunities
12. Do Gala Concert participants or prizewinners receive certificates or recommendations?
Yes. Each participant receives a certificate of participation. Prize winners will receive diplomas. Letters of recommendation may be provided by the Faculty to those who show outstanding performance.
