LEARN
TO LEAD
A hands-on program for conductors and musicians who want more than technique — they want to understand why a piece works.
My Philosophy of Teaching
I didn't learn to conduct from a textbook — I learned it standing in front of an orchestra, making mistakes, and adjusting. That's what I try to give every student: not a formula, but the judgment to make decisions in real time, with real musicians in front of you.
The value of being here
Direct Feedback
Otto works with you personally, one perspective refined over the course — not a rotating panel.
Real Repertoire
Score study built around actual concert programs, not generic exercises.
Podium Time
Time in front of a real ensemble, not just talking about conducting.
Why Teaching Matters to Otto
Otto's own path started with a suggestion, not a plan. His violin teacher, Viktor Liberman, once told him conducting might suit him — neither of them was quite sure why, not for years. Since 2018, Otto has served as Artistic Advisor to the VSO School of Music, working with young musicians long before they ever stand in front of an orchestra. For him, teaching isn't separate from conducting — it's the same instinct, pointed at someone else's growth instead of his own.
One Day, It Might Be You
Every conductor standing on a podium today started somewhere — a rehearsal room, a lucky mistake, someone willing to notice. Otto's masterclasses aren't about producing copies of himself; they're about giving someone else the same room to grow that he was given. There's no rush to sign up. But when you're ready to find out what you're capable of, the podium will still be there.
“An incredibly difficult score. On stage, the fifteen musicians delivered a truly outstanding performance. Otto Tausk guided them through the incredibly difficult score with admirable clarity. It was fantastic to hear how many different colors Adès managed to draw out of this ensemble. Tausk, together with his ensemble, made them all audible.”
Peter van der Lint
Music critic & Classical music journalist for Trouw
“The second half of the concert, Brahms Third Symphony, revealed Dutch conductor Otto Tausk at his best, for it was a natural, emotional, and lyrical interpretation: voyages of discovery, loving traversals of a familiar, exciting work with a fresh eye and mind.”
Truman C Wang
Classical Voice, Los Angeles Philharmonic
What people say
“Otto Tausk has become my favourite interpreter after he conducted the premiere of my 1st. Cello Concerto in 2017 and the premiere of my Violin Concerto in 2025. It was a rare joy working together! I am looking forward to him 1st performing my new Symphony with the Danish National Symphony Orchestra in 2029.”
Thomas Agerfeldt Olesen
Composer