Richard Strauss Days 2025: A musical festival in the spa gardens!

Richard Strauss Days 2025: A musical festival in the spa gardens!

In picturesque Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the first event of the Richard Strauss Days took place in the Michael-Ende-Kurpark on Sunday morning, June 28, 2025. The mayor Elisabeth Koch and the artistic director Dr. Dominik Sedivy welcomed the guests and got them in the mood for a week full of musical delicacies. There were also high-ranking visitors: Hans-Joachim Heßler, President of the Bavarian Constitutional Court, was among those present, while Minister of Education Markus Blume was unable to be there. Loud Mercury emphasized Dr. Sedivy emphasizes the importance of gaining support and cooperation from business in order to preserve cultural values ​​in the long term.

In her opening words, Elisabeth Koch mentioned the special connection to Italy, which was also important for Richard Strauss. The composer was inspired by his stays in Italy and created many works that bear witness to this relationship.

Musical program and performance

A highlight of the event was the performance of the Salzburg Ensemble, led by conductor Carlo Benedetto Cimento. The musicians, all graduates of respected institutions in Salzburg and often active in leading orchestras, presented a varied program. The pieces performed included two movements and an encore from the famous “Gran Partita” KV 361 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart as well as the “Sinfonietta for ten wind instruments” by Joachim Raff. Richard Strauss’ 1st Sonatina in F major for 16 wind instruments “From the Workshop of an Invalid” was also part of the program. The high sound balance and the harmonious interplay of the wind instruments thrilled the audience, who enjoyed the performance in the idyllic setting of the spa park.

The atmosphere was particularly memorable as the birds in the park joined in with the brass sounds, creating a harmonious interplay between nature and music.

Richard Strauss and his influences

Richard Strauss' work and its connections to Italy were also the subject of other events at the Richard Strauss Days. Strauss' music thrives on the influences he gathered during his travels, and his works often reflect the beauty and drama of Italian life. A celebration planned for 2025 will mark the 130th anniversary of the premiere of his famous “Till Eulenspiegel's funny pranks”. This mischievous prologue, in which the orchestra acts as narrator, is one of the classics of program music and is played in many concerts. Castle Festival plans to also celebrate Strauss’ works in the near future, underscoring the composer’s enduring popularity.

Artists like Christoph Strehl, a renowned tenor who has made an international career and plays a significant role in the world of opera, often perform at such festivals. His impressive career includes performances at the world's most famous opera houses and numerous master classes. His contribution to promoting musical heritage is valued at the Richard Strauss Days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, as are the outstanding performances of the ensembles that can be experienced there. His performances and the workshops he leads help inspire a new generation of talent and pass on the love of classical music. More information about your career can go to the site Richard Strauss days.

The Richard Strauss Days not only offer a musical celebration, but also a platform for cultural dialogue and community. This further strengthens the connection between music lovers, talented musicians and the local economy. A successful start that makes you look forward to the coming days!