For the fourth time, the Wiener Festwochen open with the Eurovision Young Musicians Competition, hosting the seven European finalists in the atmospheric City Hall square. Cornelius Meister’s ORF Radio Symphony Orchestra Vienna accompany the young talents; an international panel choose the winner. More

The inauguration will be dedicated to the final event of the Eurovision Young Musicians Competition – one of the most important international contests for classical music, which since 1982 has been taking place every two years. The competition wants to extend cultural exchange beyond national borders with the aim of discovering and honouring exceptional talents. Up-and-coming European artists under 19 years of age are eligible for participation.

After 2006, 2008 and 2010, the event is hosted by Vienna already for the fourth time in the context of the Wiener Festwochen inauguration. Against the splendid backdrop of Vienna City Hall and with an audience of tens of thousands, seven finalists will again engage in a musical tournament. The ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by its musical and artistic director Cornelius Meister, will accompany the young soloists. The best young musician of 2012 will be chosen by an international jury.

In addition to the performances of the contest participants, the inauguration concert will feature outstanding brass music presented by the enthralling Mnozil Brass septet and striking percussion art brilliantly interpreted by Martin Grubinger and his nine-person group The Percussive Planet Ensemble. Internationally renowned, virtuoso multi-percussionist Martin Grubinger will also host the evening as moderator.