Sacred Music Today
Fourth edition – September 9-13, 2026
That which is impossible to express with words can through music lead us to prayer. The music of Bach can help us feel human longing with a seldom experienced intensity. And that veil which sometimes hides the Bible’s God is lifted. – Brother Roger, Taizé
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Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world. It controls our thoughts, minds, hearts, and spirits... - Martin Luther
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The fourth edition of the International Masterclass for Choral Conductors Sacred Music Today will take place from the 9th to the 13th of September 2026 in Stockholm, Sweden. The masterclass is organised by the Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan) of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden and will be held in the picturesque and atmospheric heart of the city, the Old Town.
The instructors for the SMT masterclass are Gary Graden, Helene Stureborg and Mikael Wedar together with the
choirs:
S:t Jacob's Chamber Choir (www.sjkk.se),
the Stockholm Cathedral Chamber Choir
(https://storkyrkanskammarkor.se/)
S:t Jacobs Vocal Ensemble (www.sjve.se).
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​The participants will be exposed to the essential skills for professional choral work and given the
opportunity to gain practical experience with three outstanding ensembles. The masterclass consists
of five days of seminars, concerts, worship service, and practical studies in choral conducting (see the
detailed program below). An additional attraction to this year’s edition is the chance to follow a rehearsal and concert with the Swedish Radio Choir and guest conductor Alexander Lüken.
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Active participants: ​The organisation will accept up to 15 active participants, well-merited and experienced conductors, chosen by audition to study and perform with the one of the three choirs. There are no age limits for participants.
Non-active participants: There is a limited number of places for those who are interested in following the lessons, rehearsals and performances as non-active participants for a reduced registration fee.
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