Between June 8–15, 2026, Eskişehir will host the international orchestra conducting competition held in honor of the State Artist Prof. Gürer Aykal, one of Turkey’s most accomplished musicians. This prestigious event, planned to be held biennially, aims to gain recognition on the international music scene while promoting our country’s and city’s cultural richness to the world. The competition, which will mark an important milestone in the careers of young orchestra conductors, seeks to discover new talents, introduce them to the stage, and create a lasting cultural legacy symbolizing artistic unity and excellence.
"As an orchestra conductor, you must be very respectful of first symphonies. They are the composers' first loves."
"The conductor's respect for the composer of the work he conducts depends on reading the score well and conveying it correctly."
"The conductor is a unifying force for the orchestra members in front of him, as well as a hero who provides aesthetic unity in order to achieve a beautiful tone."
"Everything begins on that silent piece of paper. That piece of paper standing silently in front of you actually carries the signs of immortality. You bring the notes on it to life by bringing them to life and send them back to immortality, leaving them to time."
"The conductor's duty is to reveal the composer's timeless identity."
