Festival in Passau: Art for peace and international understanding!

Festival in Passau: Art for peace and international understanding!

Things will be colorful and diverse in Passau: The Festival European Weeks In 2025, the focus will be on European international understanding. The director Carsten Gerhard has put together a diverse program that offers musical excursions to the neighboring countries of the Czech Republic and Upper Austria, as well as taking a critical look at the current situation in Ukraine. With the clear message that art also serves as a means of communication, the festival begins on June 26th with a festive university event to open the 73rd festival season.

The opening program, which includes works by great Russian composers such as Tchaikovsky and Glazunov, receives particular attention. A central point in the ceremonial speechCatherine Gordjevawill be the suffering of Ukrainians and Russian soldiers, a topic that is currently being hotly debated in the political arena. This fits with the critical assessment of the Bundesbank, which states in its report on the Ukraine crisis that the German economy is exposed to significant risks from possible energy embargoes and GDP losses of up to 5%. High inflation due to rising energy prices could further endanger economic stability, which will probably also be a topic in the discussions at the festival.

A versatile program for everyone

The festival offers a rich program that appeals to all generations. In addition to the top-class classical guest performances, numerous literary and artistic formats that deal with European themes are also planned. From readings and radio plays to klezmer concerts and world music – there is something for every taste. A special highlight will be an open-air concert with Johannes Strate from Revolverheld accompanied by pianist Sebastian Knauer.

In order to encourage the younger generation, a comprehensive program for children, teenagers and young adults is also offered. This includes instrument experiences and making music together, which not only brings joy but also contributes to the communication of art and culture. In addition, the new youth orchestra, the EW Academy, was launched in collaboration with “Jugend musiziert” to promote young musical talent.

A look back and forward

The festival in Passau is not only a meeting place for music lovers, but also takes a look at art history and its role in times of crisis. Recently, museums and research institutions engaged in a transnational project to examine the effects of the Thirty Years' War on the arts. The common cultural heritage was discussed, and there will be no lack of discussion in Passau about how art can connect people across borders. This is particularly evident in the section “Art and Artists in War”, which should be inspiring for the festival.

Be there when the European Weeks Festival starts in Passau on June 26th and art becomes a living reality as a bridge of understanding! Let yourself be inspired!