Panula conducting competition draws young maestros to Vaasa

The Jorma Panula International Conducting Competition will be held in Vaasa for the tenth time in 2027, as young conductors seek to learn from the 96-year-old maestro, Yle reports.

The competition has gained international recognition. Organisers received 150 applications from across Europe for the previous event, and applications for the next competition are now open.

Vaasa Mayor Tomas Häyry said the competition’s importance extends beyond the city.

“I believe it is an even bigger event internationally. The number of applications shows that this is a highly respected and well-known competition in Europe,” Häyry said.

He said the event gives young conductors an opportunity to build their profiles and advance their careers.

Follow the score faithfully

The core of Panula’s teaching has remained unchanged for decades. He says his task is to repeat what has been said about music over the centuries.

“What is written in the score must be carried out as well as possible,” Panula said in connection with the competition.

When young conductors suggest changes to the tempo or dynamics, Panula takes a strict view.

“Don’t change a damn thing,” he said bluntly.

Above all, Panula expects young conductors to have good ears. They must also know how to play an orchestral instrument, preferably a string or wind instrument.

Panula has remained active for more than 20 years beyond retirement age. He does not view working with music as a job, but as a way of life. In his view, a conductor is never finished.

A major cultural event for Vaasa

Häyry said the competition is highly significant for Vaasa, which wants to establish itself as a cultural city.

“The competition raises Vaasa’s profile. This is a very highly regarded and sought-after competition in Europe,” Häyry said.

He encouraged residents of Vaasa and nearby areas to attend the rehearsals, where they can see how a piece takes shape and how an ensemble is made to work together.

A distinctive feature of the competition is the cooperation between Jyväskylä Symphony and Vaasa City Orchestra. According to Häyry, the partnership makes it possible to perform large works as intended.

The competition is funded by the Viljo and Maire Vuorio Foundation and is intended for citizens of the European Union, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and the United Kingdom. About 150 people apply each year.