WHAT IS A LEAD! LAB?

Participants and mentors of LEAD! Lab in Stockholm in September 2025

As an institution, LEAD! Foundation is dedicated to making mentorship, networking and performing opportunities accessible to all emerging conductors, instrumentalists and industry leaders. Based in Finland, we understand the challenges of travelling here. So instead of inviting you to come to us, we’re bringing our programmes and mentorship to cities near you!

LEAD! Labs are intensive, multi-day masterclasses where participants learn directly from distinguished mentors and leading industry professionals. Designed for artists and arts professionals at the start of their careers, our Labs provide invaluable opportunities to network, seek advice and gain insights into career development and the cultural field. Each Lab is structured to combine hands-on learning and interactive discussions, helping participants grow both artistically and professionally.

Some of the renowned artists who have joined our Labs as mentors include Jukka-Pekka Saraste, Alban Gerhardt and Sophie Heinrich, among many others. So far, LEAD! has hosted Labs in Helsinki, Munich, Oslo and Stockholm, and we’re currently planning our upcoming series in Vienna, Bergen and London. For the coming years we are excited to expand our programme to reach North America and Asia. By taking our activities abroad, we are strengthening the international network of young musicians, creating opportunities for a lasting collaboration across borders.