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 principals. We take a 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 well-prepared and 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. Based in Finland and 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. We also run a mentorship programme for emerging conductors, orchestra leaders, and since 2023, for composers. Through the festival, we arrange career workshops, seminars and discussions on musical leadership and other industry-related topics, as well as chamber- and orchestral concerts. A sister event on a smaller scale, the Fiskars Easter Sessions, is arranged biannually.
COMING UP
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WHAT IS A LEAD! LAB?
As an institution, LEAD! Foundation is dedicated to making mentorship, networking and performing opportunities accessible to all emerging conductors, instrumentalists and industry leaders. Based in Finland, we understand the challenges of travelling here. So instead of inviting you to come to us, we’re bringing our programmes and mentorship to cities near you!
LEAD! Labs are intensive, multi-day masterclasses where participants learn directly from distinguished mentors and leading industry professionals. Designed for artists and arts professionals at the start of their careers, our Labs provide invaluable opportunities to network, seek advice and gain insights into career development and the cultural field. Each Lab is structured to combine hands-on learning and interactive discussions, helping participants grow both artistically and professionally.
Some of the renowned artists who have joined our Labs as mentors include Jukka-Pekka Saraste, Alban Gerhardt and Sophie Heinrich, among many others. So far, LEAD! has hosted Labs in Helsinki, Munich, Oslo and Stockholm, and we’re currently planning our upcoming series in Vienna, Bergen and London. For the coming years we are excited to expand our programme to reach North America and Asia. By taking our activities abroad, we are strengthening the international network of young musicians, creating opportunities for a lasting collaboration across borders.
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NEXT LAB COMING UP!
Vienna 25–27 November 2025
We’re thrilled to announce TWO new LEAD! Labs in Vienna — intensive workshops for conductors and violinists eager to grow as artists and leaders.
For Conductors:
Join a two-day programme including a brunch and discussion with Jukka-Pekka Saraste and Sophie Heinrich, a Sibelius Symphony No. 1 seminar, and a workshop with Sarah Osa.
For Violinists:
Selected participants will explore orchestral leadership through a leadership brunch, individual lessons with Sophie Heinrich, a workshop with Sarah Osa, and a final demonstration concert.
Ready to elevate your artistry and leadership?
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WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON?
Over the last few months, we’ve been putting our heads together to create new events, workshops, and opportunities for emerging artists, some of which will launch already in 2026. While we can’t reveal everything just yet, we’re thrilled to share a few highlights about what’s coming next.
Along with new LEAD! Labs taking place in Vienna, London and Bergen, we’ll also be unveiling additional programs and collaborations designed to support the next generation of artists. The LEAD! Labs will be expanding to new cities and continents, with wheels already in motion to bring our activities to North America, Canada and Asia.
The flag-ship event of our organisation, the Fiskars Summer Festival will return with a new selection of concerts and soloists, but with familiar mentors and our traditional masterclass for conductors. We’re also delighted to announce the return of our Easter Sessions, featuring a vibrant line-up of performances by outstanding emerging talent.
Stay tuned for more announcements in the coming months! Sign up to our newsletter or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to be the first to know when applications open and new events are revealed.