HERBSTGOLD – Festival 2024 achieves high attendance: “Seduction” captivates visitors in the foundation’s anniversary year
HERBSTGOLD – Festival 2024, under the artistic direction of the internationally renowned violinist and conductor Julian Rachlin, celebrated its eighth edition from September 11 to 22, 2024, in Eisenstadt, marking a special highlight in the 30th anniversary year of the Esterhazy Private Foundation. Visitors from around the world experienced world-class artists, outstanding orchestras, and a diverse program that united music and art in a unique atmosphere. Seven of the eleven events were completely sold out, with the festival achieving a 95 percent attendance rate this year.
HERBSTGOLD – Festival 2024, with the theme “Seduction,” placed the essence of music at the heart of its program. The impressive lineup included piano legend Martha Argerich, baritone Sir Bryn Terfel, and cellist Gautier Capuçon. For the first time, the Philharmonia Orchestra London and the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra performed in Eisenstadt. Julian Rachlin himself appeared in four concerts, shining as a soloist, conductor, and chamber musician.
The opening concert featuring Argerich and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe thrilled the audience with Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals.” Other highlights included Beethoven’s 3rd Piano Concerto with Yefim Bronfman and Tchaikovsky’s 4th Symphony. Chamber music and readings, such as Karl Markovics’ performance, rounded out the program.
The festival finale on September 21 and 22 with Julian Rachlin and the Philharmonia Orchestra London, along with Gautier Capuçon, concluded the event with works by Mendelssohn, Haydn, and Brahms. World music and jazz enriched the program, including performances by the Janoska Ensemble and “100 Gipsy Violins.”
Following a successful anniversary year, the festival now looks ahead to 2025:
From September 10 to 21, 2025, distinguished guests such as Janine Jansen, John Malkovich, Alexandra Dowgan, and Sir András Schiff are expected. Audiences can also look forward to two exceptional philharmonic debuts: The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at the festival for the first time, and the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra, led by Julian Rachlin, will also make its HERBSTGOLD-debut.
Other highlights in 2025 include a concert by the world-famous duo Igudesman & Joo, pioneers of classical humor, an evening with baritone André Schuen, and another performance by the Janoska Ensemble, whose signature “Janoska Style” will once again bring a special flair to the festival.
Stefan Ottrubay, Chairman of the Board of the Esterhazy Private Foundations, is already looking forward to the 2025 edition: “The next edition of the HERBSTGOLD – Festival promises yet again unforgettable musical experiences. Julian Rachlin will bring outstanding musicians to Esterházy Palace, attracting guests from all over the world.”
