28 May, 2026

Applications for the JM World Orchestra 2026 are open!

After a successful pilot edition in 2025, the JM World Orchestra is officially back and looking for exceptionally talented, young, professional musicians, between the ages of 18 and 30, for a unique chamber orchestra session in Granada, Spain, from 28th of August to 5th of September 2026. The orchestra will be led by David Fernández Caravaca, one of the most compelling emerging conductors of his generation, and including a performance at the Alhambra, the exquisite palace of Charles V.

ABOUT THE ORCHESTRA:

The JM World Orchestra is a dynamic international ensemble uniting outstanding young musicians from across the globe to share a powerful message of peace and cultural understanding through music. Bringing together classically trained performers aged 18–30, the orchestra offers a unique opportunity to rehearse and perform at the highest professional level under the direction of world-renowned conductors. Founded by JM International (JMI), the world’s largest youth music nonprofit, the orchestra builds on a distinguished legacy that began in 1949 and earned recognition as a UNESCO Artist for Peace. Today, the JM World Orchestra continues this proud tradition: fostering artistic excellence, international friendship, and intercultural dialogue, while empowering the next generation of musical leaders to inspire audiences worldwide.

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, Clarinet

We also welcome last year’s candidates to apply again.

REHEARSALS AND PERFORMANCES

The selected musicians will be part of an intensive rehearsal programme that presents an exciting opportunity for collaboration and artistic growth in a multicultural environment. You will receive the music sheet one month before the sessions, therefore all musicians are expected to arrive prepared. The session will culminate in two live concert performances on the 3rd and 4th of September.

SCHEDULE OVERVIEW

28/08 : Arrivals
29/08 : Section Rehearsals
30/08 – 02/09 : Section + Tutti Rehearsals
03/09 : Performance 1 – Outdoors @ Alhambra courtyard (for an audience of approx. 1600 people!)
04/09 : Performance 2 – In the coastal city of Motril @ Calderón de la Barca Theatre
05/09 : Departures

CONDITIONS

Participants are responsible for their own travel (flights) to and from Granada, Spain, as well as their personal and instrument insurance.
- Selected musicians are advised to apply to their national JMI member organisation for travel support such as guidance regarding practical travel arrangements, as well as financial assistance. 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.
Application and Cancellation Fees: Please note that there is no application fee (in order to receive musicians, no matter their financial background), though a cancellation fee of €125 may be applied if a selected participant withdraws without valid justification (e.g. medical reasons).

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 Orchestra.