Composition master's student Paul Taro Schmidt has won the Basel Sinfonietta Competition 2026. The 27-year-old German-Japanese composer, who studies at the Royal Conservatoire The Hague, will write a new work for the Swiss orchestra. His composition will premiere on 19 September 2027 at the Stadtcasino Basel.
The Basel Sinfonietta launched the competition in May 2026 for composers under 30 based in Switzerland. Schmidt impressed the jury, consisting of members of the orchestra's programme committee and Principal Conductor Titus Engel, with his distinctive musical approach.
'Paul Taro Schmidt convinced us on the jury because his innovative fusion of contemporary music, electronics and pop culture creates a unique, forward-looking sound,' says Engel. 'He is one of the most exciting composers of the younger generation, and we are very much looking forward to his new work!'
A new work for Basel Sinfonietta
As the competition winner, Schmidt will receive 5,000 Swiss francs and a commission to compose a ten-minute work for the orchestra. The piece will premiere at the opening concert of the Basel Sinfonietta's 2027/28 season.
'I am incredibly happy to have the opportunity to write a new work for this wonderful ensemble,' says Schmidt. He is particularly excited about exploring new playing techniques. 'The orchestra's openness to new ideas gives me the freedom to experiment with techniques I haven't dared to write for other ensembles before. The Basel Sinfonietta can play anything!'