The anniversary festival of the WoertherSee Classics invites you once again in 2026 to a melodious journey through centuries of music history. Renowned artists will gather on the shores of Lake Wörthersee to experience the musical heritage of Brahms, Mahler, Wolf, and many others in an inspiring dialogue with contemporary compositions. For festival director and violinist Elena Denisova, the appeal of the festival is closely linked to the genius loci of Carinthia. "There is a spark of inspiration in every soul, often buried unconsciously and deeply. Perhaps it is the nature around Lake Wörthersee that awakens access to dreams, childlike purity, and faith—qualities that inspired great composers such as Mahler, Brahms, and Berg to create their masterpieces," she explains.
A central concern of the festival organizers is the consistent inclusion of living composers. “I don’t talk about ‘modern’ or ‘contemporary’ music, because such terms are often misleading. Performing works by living composers is an essential part of our repertoire. They need to be able to hear and experience their works themselves – premieres are vital, both for the creators and for us as performers. Music only lives when it is played.” This philosophy is particularly evident in the anniversary year: a commissioned work was created for the festival in the form of a transcription of the suite from Stravinsky's ballet "Pulcinella" for violin and orchestra. "This brilliant music will be performed at the beginning of the second concert – a piece that highlights the connection between classical heritage and the living present," explains the festival director. The motto "25 years – to melodious sounds" runs like a thread through the programs, from Grieg to Schumann, Schubert, and Brahms to Hugo Wolf's "Italian Songbook."
Elena Denisova © Woerthersee Classics
"Melody is essential for us. Just as a fragrance belongs to a rose, tonal quality belongs to interpretation; it shapes the entire experience," emphasizes the artist. When asked which performances in the anniversary year she particularly recommends, she replies with a wink: "As with several children, you can't name a favorite child—each program is unique and indispensable in its own way." Among the celebrated guests are the Keller Quartet, Slovenian clarinetist Darko Brlek, and conductor Alexander Sladkovsky. "Our artists enjoy the relaxed, exclusive atmosphere in Klagenfurt. Each work is designed especially for them, and the stage becomes a space for development and inspiration." A special highlight is the Capella Mahleriana festival orchestra. "It consists of musicians who share our philosophy. The rehearsals are harmonious and inspired – we all follow the same musical waves, with the priority always on the power of the composition and the quality of the performance." The festival also benefits from the moderation of Wilhelm Sinkovicz, the luminary of domestic music criticism. "His competence, charm, and knowledge make every event a special experience. He enriches the audience with exciting insights—you listen and marvel." Looking to the future, the festival remains true to its principles: "We want to continue to perform Mahler's symphonies, promote young talent, and treat our audience to musical gems – touching both the heart and the mind."
June 18 to 21, 2026
https://woertherseeclassics.com
