66th Weimar Master Classes 2026

One of Europe's Oldest Master Class Academies

The Weimar Master Classes at the FRANZ LISZT University of Music Weimar have been one of Europe's oldest and most internationally renowned summer master class academies since 1961. In 2026, the 66th edition runs from July 24 to August 8. For two weeks, the university on Platz der Demokratie becomes a focal point for sound: guest professors from the USA, Asia, and Europe meet advanced students and young professionals who have applied for the courses.

Course Offerings 2026 — From Bach to Composition

The course list includes Violin (Nora Chastain, Tanja Becker-Bender), Cello (Wen-Sinn Yang, Troels Svane), Piano (Lilya Zilberstein, Imre Rohmann), Flute (Anna Garzuly-Wahlgren), Tuba & Wind Chamber Music (Dirk Hirthe), Composition (Villa Massimo Prize Winner 2025), and an Orchestra Studio. Over 50 years of cooperation with the Jena Philharmonic Orchestra make the Master Classes unique — as the orchestra accompanies the best participants in the grand finale concert.

Public Concerts and Final Finale

The Master Classes are not just internal: numerous public recitals and concerts in the university's halls are free or accessible for a small admission fee. The highlight is the Final Concert with the Jena Philharmonic Orchestra on August 8, 2026 — a tradition that has marked the end of the courses for over 50 years. The selected soloists — often winners of internal competitions — often make their professional debut here.

Weimar — City of Music and Culture

Weimar, in the Weimarer Land district (state of Thuringia), is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the FRANZ LISZT University of Music, one of Germany's most traditional music universities. During the Master Classes, the city is permeated with music — students practice in university rooms, the Bauhaus University, and in the historic venues of the city of classical music. In summer, the combination of Goethe's and Schiller's city + music is a tourist highlight.