The prize is conducting a concert with the Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra in the 2017/2018 season. Grassi graduated from the Trieste Conservatory of Music, and holds a master’s degree in choral conducting.

The first ever Matej Hubad National Competition for Slovenian Conductors took place at the Slovenian Philharmonic Hall from Friday to Sunday. A total of 12 young conductors vied for the coveted award.

Their performances were judged by an international jury consisting of Tomislav Fačini, Croatia, Marko Hribernik, Slovenia, Urša Lah, Slovenia, and Holger Speck, Germany, and chaired by Karmina Šilec, Slovenia. Three female conductors made it into the final. Alenka Podpečan came in second, while Monika Fele placed third.

Petra Grassi graduated from the Trieste Conservatory of Music with a degree in piano performance and music education. She also earned a master’s degree in choral conducting from the Conservatory of Music in Trento. Last year, she received the First Prize and the Youngest Finalist Award at the Le mani in suono competition in Arezzo. She also placed third and received the Special Audience Award at the International Competition for Young Choral Conductors Europa Cantat in Turin.

A.K.; translated by D.V.