“Music is the very essence of European cultural identity”

It is also a language of humankind and wields a unique, creative and cohesive power for both society and the individual. Music is a key element of Europe’s cultural diversity, and the music industry is also of great economic importance, being  a major employer within the cultural and creative sector.

Generally, focus on Western music is often limited to a few famous individuals like Vivaldi, Mozart or Chopin; and furthermore, the fact is overlooked that those composers emerged from specific cultural and ethnic environments.

Towards the end of the 19th century, many European composers began to draw upon their respective local musical traditions as a wellspring for their own musical inspiration. This resulted in a fascinating variety of styles, and created more stimulus to develop better understanding between diverse ethnicities.

“European Music Cultures” will focus on different themes each year. Each individual composer opened up possibilities for more popular access, not only to  their music, but also to its historical context. The concerts will be preceded by introductory talks and followed by after-show discussions.

Gerhard Anton Isselhardt

Artistic Director