Call for musicians: Apply now for the JMI Unity 80 Orchestra!

The JMI Unity 80 Orchestra is looking for talented, young, professional musicians, between the ages of 18 and 30, for a unique chamber orchestra session in Debrecen, Hungary, from 8-15 July 2025. The orchestra will be led by world-renowned conductor, composer and pianist Patrick Hahn, one of the most promising artists of his generation.

About the Conductor: Patrick Hahn

Born in 1995 in Austria, Patrick Hahn has rapidly risen to the top, conducting world-class orchestras like the London Philharmonic, Vienna Symphony, and Royal Scottish National Orchestra. As the youngest-ever General Music Director in Germany, he brings fresh energy to the stage, working with major opera houses and contemporary ensembles. His talents go beyond conducting—he’s also an accomplished pianist, composer, and jazz musician, with award-winning performances across different genres. With training from legends like Kurt Masur and Bernard Haitink, plus experience assisting Kirill Petrenko, Patrick’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

His first opera premiered when he was just a teenager, and his compositions have gained international recognition. Passionate about classical, jazz, and cabaret, he brings a unique artistic flair to every performance. Imagine the thrill of playing under his baton, being part of his musical vision, and learning from one of the most versatile musicians of his generation.

About the Orchestra:

The JMI Unity 80 Orchestra will be a vibrant ensemble that brings together talented young musicians, from around the world, in order to spread a message of peace through music, in a time when it feels the world needs it most. The orchestra presents young classically trained musicians between the ages of 18-30 with the opportunity to perform under professional conditions, learning amongst their peers under the guidance of a world-renowned conductor. The orchestra celebrates the 80th anniversary of JM International (JMI), the world’s largest youth music nonprofit, well known for its JM World Orchestra (1949-2009), which was a UNESCO Artist for Peace. As a chamber ensemble with the same spirit and mission, the JMI Unity 80 Orchestra is now looking for talented young professional musicians between the ages of 18-30 for a unique chamber orchestra session in Debrecen, Hungary, from 8-15 July 2025.

Who Can Apply?

We invite applications from young professional classical musicians (ages 18-30), from around the world, specialising in the following instruments:

• Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
• Winds: Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, French Horn

Rehearsal and Performance Schedule

The selected musicians will be part of an intensive rehearsal program that presents an exciting opportunity for collaboration and artistic growth in a multicultural environment. The session will culminate in a live concert performance on the 14th of July, debuting the orchestra at the final event of the JMI Global, a music conference that brings together cultural professionals working to empower young people and children through music across 70+ countries worldwide.

Schedule Overview:

– 08/07: Arrivals

– 9-11/07: Section Rehearsals

– 11-14/07: Tutti Rehearsals

– 14/07: Performance

– 15/07: Departures

Conditions

• Participants are responsible for their own travel (flights) to and from Debrecen, Hungary, as well as cover their personal and instrument insurance.
  • Selected musicians are advised to apply to their national JMI member organisation for travel support. A list of JMI members and their contact info can be found here.
• All local costs (incl. accommodation, meals, and local transportation) will be fully covered by the organizers.
• Participation Fee:

  As this special event celebrates the 80th Anniversary of JM International, the participation fee has been waived for all selected musicians.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

• A short CV highlighting your musical experience and achievements.
• One or two video recordings (10-20 minutes in total) featuring:
  • First movement of a classical concerto or sonata (only exposition is also possible)
  • One movement of a work in a contrasting style (romantic, impressionistic, contemporary, etc.). This can be a movement of a sonata, concerto or a solo piece. Chamber music pieces are also allowed.
• A letter of motivation explaining why you would like to join the JM World Chamber Orchestra.

Application Deadline

Please submit your application by 1 May 2025.

Successful candidates will be notified by 14 May 2025.

Apply here!

Contact

Please contact us at mail@jmi.net or +32 2 513 97 74 for further information or questions.