The winner will become the Hallé’s Assistant Conductor and will be given the life-changing opportunity to work alongside the Hallé’s Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor, Kahchun Wong, for a minimum 3-year period and will have the chance to conduct the Hallé in selected concerts in Manchester and beyond. They will also become the Music Director of the Hallé Youth Orchestra, with opportunities to lead and inspire enthusiastic young musicians in rehearsals, concerts and tours.
The deadline for entries is Monday 21 July 2025 and the competition will begin on Sunday 29 March 2026. The final will see the three finalists conducting the Hallé in a concert at The Bridgewater Hall on Tuesday 31 March 2026. The winner will be announced after all three finalists have conducted a vibrant selection of music set by the panel.
The judging panel comprises leaders in the field of orchestral music and conducting:
- David Butcher - Hallé CEO
- Anna Hirst - Hallé Head of Artistic Planning
- Stephan Frucht - Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program
- Kahchun Wong - Hallé Principal Conductor
- Ilona Schmiel - Director of the Tonhalle Orchester Zürich
The competition celebrates the innovative partnership between the Hallé and Siemens AG, a global technology powerhouse, that has been developed over the last two decades. Creating links between technology, engineering and music, Siemens and the Hallé have not only brought classical music to Manchester audiences, but they have also collaborated on delivering a variety of education and community outreach projects that engage children and support communities throughout the North of England.
The inaugural competition took place in 2020 with the winner, Delyana Lazarova, going on to an international career whilst also securing significant roles with major symphony orchestras in the UK and USA. The current winner, Euan Shields, is using his experience to establish himself as a rising star in the conducting world, receiving praise for his emotionally charged performances, technical skill, and a passion for collaboration.
Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program commented: “The Siemens Arts Program places high importance on sustainably fostering the development of up-and-coming young artists. Therefore, we are pleased to strengthen our partnership with the Hallé through the third Siemens Hallé International Conductors Competition. This competition offers a wonderful platform for young conducting talent to develop their abilities and bring their musical leadership skills to the next level.”
Sue Bagguley, Head of Business Development at Siemens said: "We are excited to support the Siemens Hallé International Conductor Competition once again, helping to shine a light on the links between technology, engineering and music. We look forward to welcoming the finest emerging conductors from across the world to Manchester, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their exceptional skills and artistic vision.”
David Butcher, Chief Executive, Hallé commented: “As we watch the flourishing careers of past winners Delyana Lazarova and Euan Shields, we can see the invaluable, life-changing experience that the Siemens Hallé International Conductors Competition can offer to aspiring conductors. We can’t wait to give our 2026 winner these same opportunities and thank you to Siemens for partnering with us on this important and innovative competition which helps bring the world’s brightest talent to Manchester.”
