As the Classeek Ambassador Programme continues to unearth and support the next generation of musical talent, we are committed to providing a platform for these aspiring artists to showcase their skills, reach a wider audience, and build professional careers. And the 2025-26 season will be no different; this year’s open application has received a wonderful response!

With the submission period now closed, the applications are being reviewed by a jury composed of industry experts and Classeek's valued partners.

Meet the Jury

In addition to the Classeek team, this year's Open Application jury comprises Rena Shereshevskaya, Sonia Simmenauer, Kirill Troussov, and Markus Wyler (all pictured above). These individuals bring a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to classical music, making them the ideal judges for this process.

Rena Shereshevskaya, a highly respected teacher and pianist, brings her extensive experience in nurturing some of today's most renowned pianists to our jury this year. Awarded the title of “Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” (France) and an Honorary Professor of the Moscow Ippolitov-lvanov Musical and Pedagogical Institute, her profound understanding of musical education and performance will be crucial in identifying exceptional pianistic talent.

Sonia Simmenauer, a luminary in artist management and a long-time friend of Classeek, returns to the jury. As the founder of Impresariat Simmenauer, a leading agency for string quartets, she has represented legendary ensembles and currently manages top quartets and soloists. Her deep understanding of the classical music landscape and her dedication to nurturing young talent will be instrumental in selecting the most promising applicants.

Eric Tanguy is a celebrated composer and musicologist. His understanding of the context and evolution of classical music helps us understand the composition applicants' depth of musical knowledge and their ability to create classical works with sensitivity and nuance.

Kirill Troussov, a renowned violinist praised for his exceptional technique and musical sensitivity, joins our jury. His experience as a jury member at prestigious competitions like the Schoenfeld International String Competition, and his role as Chairman & Artistic Director of the Hong Kong Violin Competition and Carl Flesch Competition (Hungary), provides invaluable insight. As the founder and director of the Sarasate Academy (Madrid) and Engers Academy (Frankfurt), and with his extensive performance career collaborating with top conductors and orchestras worldwide, his expertise will be crucial in identifying the most promising instrumental talents.

Markus Wyler, with his unique background as a dramaturg at Zurich Opera and his extensive experience as general manager of Cecilia Bartoli, brings a broad and insightful perspective to the jury. His work in conceiving, organizing, and propagating comprehensive projects in the field of music for prestigious organizations like the Géza Anda-Foundation, Salzburg Festival, and Philharmonie de Paris, coupled with his teaching experience at leading institutions, will offer invaluable guidance in assessing the applicants' artistic vision and potential.

A Look Back at 2024-25

The Classeek Ambassador Programme continues towards its mission of discovering and supporting exceptional young artists. In 2024-25, our Open Application winners were Kryštof Kohout (above left), a violinist of exceptional artistry, and Miles Walter (above right), a multi-talented composer recognized for his versatility and creativity.

Kryštof Kohout has already captivated audiences with his performances, including a highly successful concert with Classeek, which showcased his remarkable talent. Miles Walter's compositions are set to be performed later this season, allowing audiences to experience his innovative and compelling musical voice.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2025-26 Open Application winners!