PICKBOY Baton Selected as Grand Prix Prize at the 2025 Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors
Press Release | September 29, 2025 | Tokyo, Japan
PICKBOY Baton Selected as Grand Prix Prize at the 2025 Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors
Nakano Co., Ltd. is pleased to announce that a special-edition PICKBOY baton has been
officially selected as one of the prizes presented to the Grand Prix winner of the Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors 2025 in France.
The official competition website clearly notes “A special PICKBOY baton.”
(Grand Prix page)
Grand Prix Winner
The Grand Prix was awarded to Japanese conductor Satoshi Yoneda.
During the award ceremony, the special-edition PICKBOY baton was presented to the winner on stage.
Why PICKBOY
Since its founding in 1975, PICKBOY has earned the trust of conductors worldwide through Japanese manufacturing
quality and precise craftsmanship—lightweight, well-balanced shafts, natural material grips that sit comfortably in
the hand, and meticulous finishing. Being chosen at Besançon acknowledges the baton not merely as a tool, but as a
partner that supports expressive music-making.
UV-printed inscription on the shaft: “59th Besançon Competition – 2025”
PICKBOY hard case HC-70 with a brass plate bearing the competition name/logo
This unique specification is presented to celebrate the winner’s new chapter as a maestro.
Award Presentation Video
Watch the award ceremony moment below.
About the Besançon International Competition
The Besançon International Competition for Young Conductors is a prestigious platform where outstanding young
conductors begin their international careers. Many laureates have gone on to perform with leading orchestras
worldwide.
About Nakano Co., Ltd. / PICKBOY
Nakano Co., Ltd. designs and manufactures musical accessories under the PICKBOY brand, including
high-quality batons crafted in Japan. We are committed to supporting musicians and music education around the world.
