NEWS
Kersjes Conducting
Prize 2025
2 October 2025 – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Recognized as one of the Netherlands’ most promising conductors, Drummado Wijnhamer has been named the 2025 recipient of the Kersjes Conducting Prize. The €15,000 award, granted by the Kersjes Fonds, supports his artistic development over the coming years.
In their report, the jury praised his “natural and flexible conducting style” and noted how his background as a violinist informs his sound ideal and approach to the orchestra. They also commended his dedication to Dutch repertoire, recently showcased in a youth orchestra tour through Northern Germany featuring works by Mathilde Wantenaar, Leo Smit, and Bram Kortekaas.
The prizes were presented on 26 November at De Duif in Amsterdam.
Selected for Forum
Dirigieren 2026
I am pleased to announce that I have been accepted as a fellow for the prestigious Forum Dirigieren program of the Deutscher Musikrat. After three days of intensive auditions and rehearsals with the Nürnberger Symphoniker, I am looking forward to participating in a program designed to support emerging conductors in developing their artistic and professional skills.
Forum Dirigieren offers its fellows a comprehensive program that includes masterclasses with experienced conductors, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on experience leading professional orchestras. The program also provides valuable networking and collaborative experiences, allowing young conductors to engage with peers and established musicians in meaningful musical projects.
I am honored to be selected and look forward to contributing to the upcoming projects while continuing to grow as a conductor within this highly regarded program.
Semifinalist – Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors
24 September 2025 – Besançon, France
Among 304 applicants worldwide, Drummado Wijnhamer advanced to the semifinal of the 59th Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors. The event, long considered one of the most prestigious in the field, featured repertoire from opera and concerto literature performed with the Orchestre Victor Hugo and the Orchestre Dijon Bourgogne.
His participation at this level highlights his growing international presence and versatility across styles.
Cultuurfonds Grant Awarded
12 June 2025 – Netherlands
A new chapter begins for Drummado Wijnhamer, who received a prestigious Cultuurfonds Grant to pursue his master’s studies in orchestral conducting at the Hochschule für Musik FRANZ LISZT Weimar.
Supported by the Mr. W.F. Sikman Fonds and the Lievense Baan Fonds, the award recognizes his artistic promise and dedication. The grant provides essential support for his ongoing growth as a conductor on the international stage.
CAMPUS Conducting
Competition – Third Prize
31 May 2025 – Dresden, Germany
After an intense week of rehearsals and performances, the CAMPUS-Dirigieren competition in Dresden concluded with Drummado Wijnhamer earning third prize.
Held once every three years, this national competition unites the top conducting students from all German music universities. Following the preliminary sessions in Nuremberg, Drummado advanced to the Dresden rounds, leading several orchestras including the HfM Dresden Orchestra and the Dresdner Philharmonie in a finale centered on “Romeo and Juliet".
Success in Leipzig! - First Prize
8 January 2025 – Leipzig, Germany
A remarkable start to 2025: Drummado Wijnhamer took first prize at the 13th Conducting Competition of the MDR Symphony Orchestra in Leipzig.
Organized jointly by the music universities of Leipzig, Dresden, and Weimar, the event is known for its demanding standards.
The jury praised Drummado’s clarity of musical vision, expressive communication, and efficient rehearsal work. As part of the award, he lead the MDR Symphony Orchestra in concert on 14 March 2025.