Developing the Next Generation of Leaders in Classical Music
LEAD! Foundation’s mission is to support the emerging careers of the next generation of young conductors and aspiring orchestra leaders. We take a broad, holistic view, concentrating not only on the technical and musical aspects of the profession, but also on providing active mentoring and frank advice on the classical music industry.
We are convinced that prepared and well-informed artists will be able to manage their careers with greater success, and navigate today’s competitive music world with more confidence, both on-stage and off.
The foundation is directed by leading Finnish conductor Jukka-Pekka Saraste and provides teaching through the LEAD! Foundation Academy and the LEAD! Foundation Digital Academy. Based in Finland but active internationally, we are also the founders of the Fiskars Summer Festival, the main platform for our annual conductors’ masterclass, which features renowned guest conductors invited from both Finland and abroad. The festival also runs career workshops, open seminars and discussions on musical leadership and other industry-related topics, as well as chamber- and orchestral concerts.
LEAD! Foundation aims to create a sustainable network for learning as well as to provide a supportive community. In addition to our face-to-face activities, we offer online teaching, career advice and assistance to our students and alumni no matter where they are in the world and in their career. Our Digital Academy runs activities throughout the year.
