Markus Hinterhäuser has been reappointed as the artistic director of the Salzburg Festival for a third five-year term, extending his tenure in one of Europe’s most prominent cultural positions. The festival announced that its board of directors agreed to a contract through 2031, with a provision allowing either side to terminate the deal by September 30, 2029. Hinterhäuser, a 66-year-old pianist born in Italy, previously served as the director of concerts at Salzburg from 2007-2011 and as interim artistic director in 2011 before officially taking on the role in 2016.
Hinterhäuser’s appointment continues a line of influential artistic directors at the Salzburg Festival, following in the footsteps of Herbert von Karajan, who reigned from 1956 to 1989. Other artistic directors have included Gerard Mortier, Peter Ruzicka, Jürgen Flimm, and Alexander Pereira. Under Hinterhäuser’s leadership, the festival has continued to showcase world-class performances and innovative programming, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier cultural events in Europe. This summer’s festival is set to feature 172 performances from July 19 to August 31, along with 33 youth programs designed to engage and inspire the next generation of artists and audiences.
The Salzburg Festival holds a special place in the world of classical music and the performing arts, attracting top talent from around the globe to its picturesque setting in Austria. Hinterhäuser’s reappointment signals a commitment to maintaining the festival’s high artistic standards and innovative programming for years to come. With a focus on both traditional repertoire and contemporary works, the festival continues to push boundaries and explore new artistic possibilities, while also honoring its rich history and legacy. Hinterhäuser’s extensive experience and artistic vision make him well-suited to lead the festival into the future and ensure its continued success.
In addition to the main performances, the Salzburg Festival also offers a variety of educational and outreach programs to engage with audiences of all ages and backgrounds. These initiatives help to foster a love of music and the arts, encouraging participation and appreciation for cultural events. By reaching out to young people through youth programs and educational activities, the festival aims to inspire the next generation of artists and audiences, ensuring that the tradition of cultural excellence continues for years to come. Hinterhäuser’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding these efforts and shaping the festival’s future direction.
As one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious cultural institutions, the Salzburg Festival plays a significant role in shaping the global arts landscape. With Markus Hinterhäuser at the helm, the festival is poised to continue its tradition of excellence and innovation, attracting world-class artists and audiences from around the world. Hinterhäuser’s artistic vision and dedication to nurturing young talent and diverse programming have made him a respected figure in the cultural world, and his reappointment as artistic director ensures a bright future for the Salzburg Festival. The festival’s upcoming season promises to be a celebration of music, theater, and dance, showcasing the best of classical and contemporary performance in a breathtaking setting that has inspired artists for generations.
