In this unique two-part summer school, you’ll gain hands-on experience with real musicians, sharpen your conducting technique, and explore the art of jazz ensemble leadership. Whether you’re an aspiring conductor or a musician curious about big band dynamics, this course offers an unforgettable journey through rhythm, harmony, and collaboration.
This summer school combines the best of online preparation and immersive live practice.
In Part 1, you’ll study the essentials of conducting and prepare your scores under expert guidance. In Part 2, you’ll lead a full big band during the Imatra Big Band Camp Event, it includes the course and the street concerts.
Through a blend of theory, analysis, and hands-on rehearsals, you’ll learn to transform your musical ideas into dynamic performances that move both musicians and audiences.
By the end of the course, you will:
After completing the course, you will:
Two-part learning experience:
Absolutely! No previous conducting experience is required.
If you’re a musician, composer, or music student eager to explore the world of jazz ensemble leadership, this course is your gateway to the conductor’s role.
Language requirement: Good command of English.
The Big Band Conducting Summer School 2026 is divided into two parts, combining online studies with on-site practice.
Please see below for more detailed daily course schedule:
Part 1 (15–18 June 2026, ONLINE)
| Mon 15 June (ONLINE) | Tue 16 June (ONLINE) | Wed 17 June (ONLINE) | Thu 18 June (ONLINE) |
|---|---|---|---|
10 am-1 pm Introduction to course
| 10 am-1 pm Basics of conducting 1
| 10 am-1 pm Basics of conducting 2
| 10 am-1 pm Basics of conducting 3
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Part 2 (22–26 June 2026, ON-SITE)
| Mon 22 June (ON-SITE) | Tue 23 June (ON-SITE) | Wed 24 June (ON-SITE) | Thu 25 June (ON-SITE) | Fri 26 June (ON-SITE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travelling day to Imatra (255km from Helsinki to Imatra, Finland) | 10 am-17 pm Conducting clinic
More detailed schedule TBA | 10 am-17 pm Conducting clinic
More detailed schedule TBA | 10 am-17 pm Conducting clinic
More detailed schedule TBA | 10 am-17 am Conducting clinic
More detailed schedule TBA FINAL CONCERT |
Limited Spots Available – Maximum number of participants is 15!
Important: The minimum number of participants is 8. Metropolia Summer School reserves the right to cancel the course if an insufficient number of students register. In this case, students will be notified immediately after the registration period closes. Course registration will close on April 30, 2026.
1. Choose Your Course & Register: Visit the course page and click the specific registration link for your chosen course. Fill out the registration form carefully.
2. Await Final Confirmation: You will receive an acceptance email no later than April 6, 2026, and a final confirmation April 30, 2026.
3. Secure Your Spot: Pay the course fee within the deadline mentioned in your acceptance email.
4. Plan Your Trip: Arrange visa & travel (see Travel Tips below).
Need Help? Contact us for any questions regarding the process.
Course Fee: 1 380 € (incl. VAT 25,5%)
1. Book flights early for lower prices.
2. Arrange travel insurance before departure.
3. Check currency exchange & payment options (credit cards are widely accepted).
4. Download key apps:
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is Finland’s largest and most international university of applied sciences, offering world-class education, modern learning environments, and strong industry connections. With a focus on innovation and hands-on learning, Metropolia prepares students for the future.
50 years of experience with big band music
Imatra big band summer camp was founded in 1975 and it is one of the biggest big band camps in Europe. Annually the camp has approx. 100 students. During the camp, they will be divided in 5 big bands. Conductor big band is one of the big bands.
