photo : Kayoteq’s photostream
Starting today at venues in Vienna and Graz, the capital of Styria, will be a big bonanza involving the oriental countries and Austria – East meets West. And it’s not a one-off thing, but an annual festival that takes place over a number of weeks.
Wiener Konzerthaus
Opened in 1913, Wiener Konzerthaus (Vienna Concert Hall) originally had 3 sound-proofed auditoria or halls, which allowed simultaneous performances to take place. In the late 20th century, it underwent a complete renovation and a 4th hall was added.
The Konzerthaus is home to well established and respected musical ensembles:
- the Vienna Symphony Orchestra
- Wiener Kammerorchestre – Vienna Chamber Orchestra
- Wiener Singakademie – Austria’s first mixed choir established in 1858 and conducted by Johannes Brahms in 1862
- Klangforum Wien – a chamber orchestra established in 1985, which specialises in classical music from post-1945 and particularly from 1970 onwards.
Since its opening, the Konzerthaus has supportsed a mix of classical and innovative or contemporary music styles in its programme. It’s not surprising, then, that the Salam. Orient festival is being hosted in its hallowed halls.
Salam. Orient Cultural Festival
The ‘Vienna Acts’ funded Salam. Orient 2012 cultural festival starts today – 16th October – and continues at venues in Vienna and Graz, until 10th November.
This is a celebration of music, dance and literature – though particularly poetry – from oriental cultures, combined with Austrian themed performances. So, for example, one of the events is called ‘A Turkish Cookery Course’ and involves story telling and fairy tales from the Orient and Styria.
It’s not too late if you fancy a little hot and cold stuff mixed together this autumn. Go for it. Book some beds and be part of this unusual party. And it’s not just for grown-ups after a little eastern promise. There are workshops for children and adolescents too!
The event hasn’t been without its intrigues and issues, but that shouldn’t stop it being an ‘go to’ festival of fun.
Dates for your Diary
16th October to 10th November. For programme details, see the Salam. Orient website.
Other events at the Konzerthaus that might be of interest include:
- Resonanzen – Early Music Festival held in January
- Wiener Frühlingsfestival – Spring festival
- Internationale Musikfest – May and June
- Wien Moderne – in the Autumn
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