The inauguration of Wiener Festwochen 2010 will be dedicated to the final of the Eurovision Young Musicians Competition, one of the most important international classical music competitions. After 2006 and 2008, the atmospheric backdrop of the magnificently illuminated Vienna City Hall and an audience of tens of thousands will already for the third time serve as framework for the performances of the seven European finalists, from whose number the winner will be chosen in the course of this opening ceremony of Wiener Festwochen. The best young musician of 2010 will be voted by an international jury.

"Opening Ceremony of Wiener Festwochen 2010 - Eurovision Young Musicians 2010" Final on 14 May at ORF 2

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The inauguration of Wiener Festwochen 2010 will be dedicated to the final of the Eurovision Young Musicians Competition, one of the most important international classical music competitions. Within the central context of promoting cultural exchange beyond national borders and discovering and honouring young talents, emerging European musicians aged not over 19 years are invited to participate. A unique aspect lies in the fact that the final of the competition, which has been taking place every two years since 1982, is broadcast live all over the European TV network. After 2006 and 2008, the atmospheric backdrop of the magnificently illuminated Vienna City Hall and an audience of tens of thousands will already for the third time serve as framework for the performances of the seven European finalists, from whose number the winner will be chosen in the course of this opening ceremony of Wiener Festwochen. The best young musician of 2010 will be voted by an international jury.

As a counterpoint to the classical compositions performed by the finalists, the opening ceremony will additionally offer highly dramatic, vocally impressive choral pieces and the very best, most inspiring world music, splendidly interpreted by renowned musicians and ensembles, who will fill the big stage on City Hall Square with equally big formations.

The ORF Radio Symphony Orchestra Vienna will be conducted by Cornelius Meister; the evening will be moderated by Christoph Wagner-Trenkwitz.