International Federation for Choral Music

Young Conductors’ Virtual Mentorship Programme

Purpose

This new initiative from the IFCM YOUNG Committee is designed to connect developing choral conductors with experienced choral directors around the world. Our goal is to foster meaningful, cross-cultural connections that inspire the next generation of conductors, exchange knowledge and ideas, and strengthen the global choral community.

Who can participate

• Mentees: Developing choral conductors under the age of 35. Selected mentees must be IFCM members.*
• Mentors: Established, experienced choral conductors willing to volunteer their time and share their expertise.

* Mentees can become an IFCM member after selection (if they are not already). See the IFCM website for details and student discount opportunities.

How it works

Over a six-month period (October 2025–April 2026), each selected mentee will be paired with an experienced mentor.  Each pair will schedule at least four one-hour online mentoring sessions, with the flexibility to connect more often if they wish.

Within a set of provided guidelines, each pair will decide how best to use their time—whether that’s discussing repertoire, rehearsal strategies, leadership skills, career planning, or other topics important to the mentee’s growth.

The programme will begin with a group online welcome meeting and conclude with a wrap-up session to share reflections and feedback.

Both mentors and mentees must commit to finding mutually suitable times for at least four meetings.

Benefits

Mentees

• Expertise – learn from experienced choral directors who will provide valuable insights, guidance and practical advice.
• Mentoring – receive tailored support and feedback based on individual career goals and challenges.
• Professional development – gain training on conducting techniques, rehearsal strategies, repertoire selection, leadership skills and career planning.
• Networking opportunities – build meaningful connections within the global choral community.
• Cross-cultural exchange – benefit from exposure to different choral traditions, perspectives and approaches.
• Career advancement – enhance professional opportunities through mentorship, references and guidance on auditions, job applications and further studies.
• Flexibility – a structured yet adaptable mentorship process without geographical or financial constraints.

Mentors

• Giving back – share experience and knowledge to support the next generation of choral conductors.
• Personal fulfilment – satisfaction of nurturing young talent and making a difference in their professional journey.
• Fresh perspectives – gain new ideas, insights and enthusiasm from mentees.
• Cultural exchange – learn about different musical traditions, practices and perspectives from mentees across various regions.
• Expanding networks – strengthen connections within the international choral field through engagement with mentees and fellow mentors.
• Professional recognition – IFCM will recognise your participation on social media.

Call for Mentors and Mentees: How to apply

Applications are now open for the inaugural IFCM Young Conductors’ Virtual Mentorship Programme!

Please complete the relevant form (linked below) to indicate your interest. Applications close on 21 September 2025. 

Selections and pairings will be confirmed by mid-October. The programme will begin in late October.

Mentee application

Application form

Documents required:

• CV
• Short biography (max 200 words)
• Photo (preferably headshot)
• Letter of Intent (200-400 words; describe your motivation for applying and your expectations for the programme)

Mentor expression of interest

Expression of interest form

Documents required:

• CV
• Short biography (max. 200 words)
• Photo (preferably headshot)
• Contribution statement (approx. 100 words; describe how you believe you can contribute to the development of a young conductor during this programme)

Join us in building bridges across the global choral community—one conversation at a time.

If you have any questions about the project, please contact the IFCM YOUNG Committee at young@ifcm.net.