ABOUT THE COMPETITION
The Third Târgu Mureș International Conducting Competition is scheduled to take place from September 21 to 25, 2026, at the Palace of Culture in Târgu Mureș, Romania. Organized by the Association Kult Mind in cooperation with the Târgu Mureș State Philharmonic, the competition is open to conductors of all nationalities with no age limits. The event marks a significant milestone in its development, featuring cooperation with high-calibre international symphonic institutions.
The competition is structured in two main phases: an Eliminatory Phase based on video submissions, running from March 1 to July 31, 2026, and a live Final Phase in September. The live phase consists of four steps—First and Second Rounds, Semi-final, and Final—all conducted with a full symphony orchestra in front of an international jury. The final round includes a dress rehearsal and a public concert as part of the Târgu Mureș State Philharmonic Orchestra’s season, where three finalists will compete for the absolute prizes.
Winners will be awarded substantial cash prizes, with the first prize set at €4,000, alongside prestigious concert engagements with various partner orchestras such as the Târgu Mureș State Philharmonic, the Romanian State Opera in Cluj-Napoca, the Arad Philharmonic, and the Munich Kammerphilharmonie dacapo. Special awards of €500 and official plates will also be presented to the best conductors under 25, over 45, and the best female conductor who reach the semi-finals.