Conducting masterclasses at OAcademy

The Carlos Miguel Prieto Conducting Fellowship is a six-month, immersive journey leading to an Artist Diploma, designed for twelve emerging conductors of any nationality.

Elevate your conducting career with OAcademy's prestigious six-month Artist Diploma, designed to prepare emerging conductors for leadership roles in the orchestral world. The Carlos Miguel Prieto Conducting Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity to refine your skills through conducting masterclasses, mentorship, and real-world experience, positioning fellows for future roles in assistant conductor and music director positions worldwide.​

About the Fellowship

Guided by renowned conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto, the Artist Diploma training combines online interactive sessions with optional in-person residencies worldwide. Fellows delve into physical communication techniques, score analysis, and engage with industry leaders, including conductors, agents, and administrators, to gain comprehensive professional insights. Applicants are likely to have undertaken prior conducting study and/or to be conducting student or community ensembles and orchestras.

Key highlights

  • Online masterclasses on interpretation with Music Director Carlos Miguel Prieto and Principal Guest Conductor Alexander Shelley
  • Studio classes in conducting technique with Fellowship Director Scott Wilson
  • Online masterclasses, repertoire sessions, and Q+A sessions with a large number of international calibre guest conductors
  • Personal exposure to world-class conductors through dedicated networking events
  • Lecture-discussions with leading agency representatives and Artistic Planning Directors

Alumni achievements

Recent graduates of the Fellowship are conducting internationally and hold Resident and Assistant Conducting positions in Europe, North America, South America, and Australasia.

  • Tatiana Pérez Hernández (2022): Resident Conductor at Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra; Semi-Finalist at La Maestra International Conducting Competition.​
  • Leonardo Pineda (2022): Resident Conductor at The Orchestra San Antonio; Faculty member at The Orchestra NOW, Bard College.​
  • Ingrid Martin (2022): New Zealand Conductor in Residence; Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship Mentee.​
  • Thibault Back de Surany (2023): Music Director of The Van Swietens.

‘The program allowed me to consider the greater role / roles of a conductor. Instead of just focusing on scores and technique, I became more aware of the toolkit every young conductor should have… I felt inspired and got fresh ideas about where and how to expand my artistic vision.’

Orr Guy (Israel / Austria - 2024)
· Pennine Spring Music Festival, Music Director

Take the next step in your conducting journey

Ideal candidates are visionary leaders-in-training, committed to shaping the future of classical music.
Apply now

Why OAcademy?

If you're looking to step up from assistant conductor to music director roles, OAcademy provides a flexible and accessible pathway to advance your professional journey. Gain vital conducting and leadership skills, collaborate on impactful projects, and connect with a global network of peers—without the need to relocate and while accommodating your current engagements.

Convenient Schedule

Our blended learning approach will help you balance your studies with your other commitments.

World-Class Faculty

Refine your interpretation, develop expressive clarity, and build your musical voice through world-class conducting masterclasses with elite faculty and guest artists.

Global Exposure

Join a vibrant international alumni network with ongoing collaborations and partnerships across the professional music world.

Holistic Artist Development

Benefit from a supportive global network and dedicated mentorship across all areas of musical leadership through OAcademy’s Conservatory faculty.

International Opportunities

Take part in optional global residencies tailored to your development — with all local expenses covered by the fellowship.

360º Career Guidance

Gain career insight from leading agents, artist managers, and music industry professionals. Learn how to navigate the path from assistant conductor to music director.

Carlos Miguel Prieto Conducting Fellowship