Special Concerts

The city of Vienna is globally renowned for its rich musical tradition, shaped by famous composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The Voices for Peace concerts celebrate the diversity and beauty of Vienna's music scene, taking the audience on a musical journey. Special Concerts will take place at various music venues and historically significant churches throughout Vienna.

The House of Strauss

The House of Strauss, a venue with Biedermeier architecture, has been a focal point for cultural events, enriching Vienna's musical tradition. In 1850, Johann Strauss held a magnificent Viennese folk festival here, captivating attendees with a splendid ball, impressive illumination, and fireworks. Over the years, it hosted numerous concerts by the Strauss brothers, Johann and Eduard. Under heritage protection since 2008, Casino Zögernitz underwent extensive revitalization to restore its historic grandeur and acoustic brilliance, continuing its legacy as a central pillar of Viennese culture and music.

Votivkirche

The Votivkirche, also known as the Votive Church of the Sacred Heart, is an impressive neo-Gothic church in Vienna. With its imposing architecture and intricate decorations, it serves as a symbol of faith and spirituality. The church provides a captivating backdrop for moving musical performances.

MuTh - Concert Hall of Vienna Boys' Choir

Vienna's new venue for music and theater - the Vienna Boys' Choir Concert Hall in Augarten - opened in December 2012! An exciting new venue has emerged in the heart of Vienna, a place with a focus on young people where music and theater come together. It is also the permanent performance venue of the world-renowned Vienna Boys' Choir.

Workshops

Under the guidance of Prof. Toby Purser from the Royal College of Music, London, Prof. Neil Varon from the Eastman School of Music, Prof. Helmut Zehetner from the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna and members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside renowned Austrian musicians and eminent music educators, participating orchestras will receive coaching. This coaching will cover a variety of themes and techniques, aimed at enhancing the orchestras' musical abilities and understanding.

Maria-Theresien-Kaserne - Workshops will be provided at the music guards of The Austrian Armed Forces (at the Maria- Theresien-Kaserne). Colonel Mag. Bernhard Heher, head of the music guards, and his colleagues will coach wind orchestras with Austrian music works and methods. Note: All wind orchestras can apply for one of the workshops

The University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna The University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna (German: Universität für Musik und darstellende Kunst Wien, abbreviated MDW) is an Austrian university located in Vienna. It was established in 1817 by the Society for the Friends of Music and was nationalized in 1909 as the Imperial Academy of Music and the Performing Arts. In 1998, the university assumed its current name to reflect its university status, which was achieved as part of a comprehensive 1970 reform for Austrian Arts Academies. Today, with a student population exceeding three thousand, it stands as the largest institution of its kind in Austria and one of the largest in the world. Notable musicians who have been associated with the university include Herbert von Karajan, Zubin Mehta, and Jean Sibelius.

Competition

The festival's essence extends beyond mere competition, aiming instead to nurture the advancement of orchestras and their members. It offers a fair and open forum for orchestras to exhibit their unique styles through competitive performance. At the World Orchestra Festival, orchestras participating in the "Competition" segment have the esteemed chance to perform in front of a distinguished jury, including Prof. Toby Purser from the Royal College of Music, London, Prof. Neil Varon from the Eastman School of Music, Prof. Helmut Zehetner, and members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside renowned Austrian musicians and eminent music educators. This significant event not only highlights their talents on a prestigious platform but also provides an opportunity for them to be seen and critiqued by some of the most illustrious personalities in classical music. For further insights into this competitive yet celebratory facet of the festival, refer to the "Celebration and Competition" chapter.

Artistic Director of the Festival: Toby Purser

This year, we are thrilled to announce that Professor Toby Purser of the Royal College of Music's Conducting Department joins our music festival, bringing his illustrious expertise to the 11th World Orchestra Festival in 2025 as the esteemed Artistic Director. Toby Purser is a distinguished conductor known for his artistic mastery across symphonies and operas, highlighting versatility and depth. He plays a significant role in nurturing young talents as the Artistic Director of the Peace and Prosperity Trust and influences the future of conducting through his leadership at London's Royal College of Music. His collaborations with leading UK orchestras and founding of the Orion Orchestra demonstrate his expertise in symphonic music, while his innovative contributions to opera have been recognized by prestigious institutions like the English National Opera and Opéra National de Paris, earning him critical acclaim and award nominations.

Music Dinner and Celebration

Music Unites nations! Admist the elegant tapestry of Vienna's rich cultural heritage, the World Orchestra Festival invites orchestras to enchanting evenings of dining and celebration. In this city of music and history, where the notes of Beethoven and Mozart still echo, these gatherings become more than mere events; they transform into a poetic dance of camaraderie and culture.. As orchestras from around the world unite, the spirit of Vienna infuses their interactions, creating and atmosphere where new frienships are forged in the timeless rhythm of shared melodies and cultural harmony.

Gala Concert

The rehearsals and gala concert will take place in the afternoon and evening at the famous Golden Hall of Musikverein, where the renowned New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is broadcasted to the world every year.

Each orchestra will have the opportunity to individually perform on this grand stage, captivating both Austrian and international guests. The gala concert promises to be a festival highlight, offering orchestra members a memorable experience. The chance to present their music in one of the world's most prestigious concert halls will not only enhance the orchestra's confidence but also provide a truly exceptional experience.

Tour Manager

Choirs can reach the concert venues by subway (or public bus) from the hotel or we can offer optional coach transfers. We recommend that larger groups consider the use of a coach for the transfers.