Conducting workshop with Hossein Pishkar

Kalamata Dance Megaron
September 1–6, 2025

The conducting workshop with Hossein Pishkar will be held at the Kalamata Dance Megaron from September 1 to 6, 2025.  

This workshop gives conductors the opportunity to develop their musical and technical skills as well as delve into the operatic repertoire and the theatrical aspects of music. The chance to work with mezzo-soprano Ema Nikolovska will help participants better understand the human voice and the unique nature of working with singers. Furthermore, the workshop will encompass aspects which surpass the physical activities of the conductor in front of the musicians; technical aspects of the pieces as well as various themes, such as rehearsal techniques, psychological facts and communication skills will be taken into consideration. On the other hand, some time will additionally be dedicated to the analysis of the score and the different methods of preparation and approach. Cultural and historical aspects of the compositions and the problematic areas of “interpretation” will also be discussed.  

Through a small group of a maximum of six students, the festival is cultivating an inspiring and friendly environment for the best possible development of each musician. You will be accompanied by a string quartet and a pianist (with score reduction parts). Working with the ensemble will last in total about 4 hours and each participant will be granted approximately 40 minutes of podium time per day. Each active participant will have the chance to appear at the final concert of the conducting workshop, which will be held in Kalamata.

Repertoire to be studied: 

• Johann Strauss II: Kaiserwalzer, op. 437
• Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 4 in C minor, D 417 or Symphony No. 5 in B♭ major, D. 485 (to be announced upon acceptance) 
• 3 to 4 arias, which will be studied with Ema Nikolovska 
• A piece of your choice, which will be discussed in one session. 

All the workshops and masterclasses of the festival are open to the public.

Workshop’s main language: English (communication in Italian and German is also possible)

The cost of active participation in the conducting workshop is 500 € per person. These prices do not include accommodation in Kalamata.

Active participation in the workshop is only possible after applying through the website and admission by the tutor.

Requirements for the application:

• Conducting videos of two contrasting works representing your current level. 

Application deadline: May 31, 2025.

For more information, see the terms of participation.

All masterclasses.