Blue Danube Opera Conducting Masterclass 2025 (II) – 15-24 September with State Opera Stara Zagora/Bulgaria and Maestro Ivaylo Krinchev. Operas to be rehearsed and performed over 10 days are George Bizet's eternal masterpiece, Carmen; and Giacomo Puccini's heart-rending Madama Butterfly – both fully-staged, costumed, and sung in Italian before the public in the opera's beautiful theater. 8 conductors to be accepted as active-participants with each conducting at least 1/4 of one of the two operas in performance. Conductors may use their podium time entirely on their performance assignment, or divide it between both operas in numerous rehearsals – orchestra only; choir only, cast with piano, Sitzproben (all soloists and choir seated on stage with conductor and orchestra in the pit), etc. Our Mastercourse is tailored for conductors at all levels, even those who have not yet had much experience working with singers and opera. Auditors (passive participants) welcomed. Now in its 23rd year!