Update on the IFCM Young Conductor’s Virtual Mentorship Programme

Jun 01 highlighted

Published: Jun 01,2026

The inaugural IFCM Young Conductors’ Virtual Mentorship Programme has officially concluded after six months of artistic exchange, learning, and international collaboration.

Created by the IFCM YOUNG Committee, the programme connected emerging conductors from around the world with experienced choral leaders in a series of online mentorship sessions focused on artistic development, leadership, repertoire, and professional growth. The initiative aimed to foster meaningful cross-cultural connections through music while supporting the next generation of choral musicians.

The programme brought together an outstanding international group of mentors: Andrea Angelini (Italy), Beverly Shangkuan-Cheng (Philippines), Burak Onur Erdem (Türkiye), Cameron LaBarr (USA), Camilo Santostefano (Argentina), Jan Schumacher (Germany), John Rosser (New Zealand), Joseph Svendsen (USA), Manuel Suazo Pavez (Chile), Michael Zaugg (Canada/Switzerland), Rudolf de Beer (Norway/South Africa), and Friederike Stahmer (Germany).

Feedback from participants highlighted the programme’s impact. One mentee described the experience as “truly inspiring”, while another reflected that “sharing experiences across cultures has been a highlight, proving that both music and mentorship are universal languages that unite and enrich us.”

The IFCM YOUNG Committee extends its sincere thanks to all mentors and mentees who helped make this project such a meaningful and successful initiative.