The Finnish conductor Sasha Mäkilä will be leading an intense masterclass over five days in Sofia, Bulgaria. Ten students will have the opportunity to work with Sofia Sinfonietta on masterpieces by Beethoven and Grieg. The course consists of five rehearsals and a public concert at the cultural center “Nadezhda”, as well as technique sessions together with a faculty pianist. Each participant will enjoy approximately 20 minutes daily podium time with the orchestra, plus the final concert on July 18. The focus of the masterclass will be conducting technique and communication skills with the orchestra. Participants are allowed to videotape all the sessions. The course is open to conductors of all ages and skill levels. REPERTOIRE Beethoven: Symphony No. 2 in D major, Op. 36 Grieg: Holberg Suite (Fra Holbergs tid), Op. 40 The course fee is €1600 which does not include accommodation.