ABOUT THE COURSE
The Sigmund Thorp Conducting Masterclass: ‘The Music between the Beats’ takes place in Taipei, Taiwan, from January 24 to January 29, 2027. Led by Professor Sigmund Thorp, former long-time professor at the Norwegian Academy of Music and renowned guest professor at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU), this intensive six-day course focuses on conducting technique, anatomical exercises, score study, and expressive musical delivery.
Participants will engage in five conducting sessions with a string quintet and piano, followed by four practicum sessions with the full Ark Symphony Orchestra in symphonic formation. Each active conductor is guaranteed at least 140 minutes of podium time, along with comprehensive video reviews, technical lectures, and individual feedback from Professor Thorp.
The masterclass culminates in a final public concert performance with the Ark Symphony Orchestra, where each active participant conducts an assigned movement or section from the repertoire. The program covers works by Schubert, Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms.