Empowering Modern Conductors
We aim to shape the future leaders of the conducting world by offering an unparalleled educational experience rooted in real-world practice and comprehensive training. Through our unique partnerships with professional orchestras, our students gain regular, hands-on experience conducting live performances, bridging the gap between the classroom and the concert hall.
We bring a holistic approach to conducting education, covering all styles and settings, and working with a diverse array of ensemble types. By immersing our students in a dynamic learning environment with access to seasoned professionals, we empower them to develop their unique artistic voices, master the nuances of conducting, and excel across the diverse landscapes of orchestral, choral, and contemporary ensemble performance.
Faculty and Guest Artists
Christo Pavlov
Conducting Faculty
Music Director of the Vratsa Symphony Orchestra, Music and Record Producer, Orchestrator and Score Supervisor at the European Academy of Fine Arts and ERO
Niki Petrov
Conducting Faculty
Accomplished Bulgarian Studio and Classical Conductor, Orchestrator, Score Supervisor and Classical Percussionist.
Derek Gleeson
Conducting Faculty
Music Director of the Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra
Walt Straiton
Conducting Faculty
American Conductor & Music Executive (Yamaha, Conn-Selmer); Performances with Chuck Mangione, Chris Botti, Bob James, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich
Debbie Smith
Recording, Mixing & Editing
Studio Engineer and Lecturer in Recording, Mixing & Editing. Works in the recording studios of Dublin, Sofia and Los Angeles with, among others,
Mihail Yossifov
Jazz Faculty
One of the most successful Bulgarian Jazz Trumpeters in the industry, leader of the Big Band
Explore Our Unique Training Experiences for Conductors
Master of Fine Arts in Conducting
Master of Fine Arts in Classical, Studio, Contemporary Conducting & Related Recording Technologies. 54 credits.
Conducting Summer Program
A 3-week fully immersive summer program for modern conductors in the foothills of the Balkan mountains. 8 hours of podium time. 6 credits.