Concert Introduction

Iván Fischer

Conductor, composer, opera director, thinker and educator, anchored in the tradition of the great musical polymaths, Iván Fischer is considered one of the most visionary musicians of our time. His 40-year tenure as Music Director of the Budapest Festival Orchestra is one of classical music’s greatest success stories. Beyond the BFO, he has led the National Symphony Orchestra in Washington and the Konzerthausorchester Berlin, and holds the title of Honorary Guest Conductor of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. In 2024, he was appointed Music Director of the European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO).

As a reformer, Fischer has introduced groundbreaking concert formats and founded the European Orchestra Academy to foster community responsibility. His creative output includes internationally performed operas and vocal works, such as The Red Heifer. A recipient of the Royal Philharmonic Society Music Award and the World Economic Forum’s Crystal Award, Fischer remains dedicated to a singular, poetic mission: "to dissipate clouds" through the divine gift of music.

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Budapest Festival Orchestra (BFO)

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Founded in 1983 by Iván Fischer and Zoltán Kocsis, the Budapest Festival Orchestra (BFO) has rapidly ascended to become one of the world's top ten ensembles. Renowned for its uncompromising dedication, the BFO was named "Orchestra of the Year" by Gramophone in 2022.

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Beyond technical perfection, the BFO is celebrated for its visionary spirit. Their innovative concert formats—including the "Midnight Music" series and "Cocoa Concerts" for children with autism—have set new standards for audience engagement. A unique hallmark of the ensemble is that its members frequently perform as a vocal choir. From acclaimed Mahler recordings to prestigious opera productions at the Mostly Mozart Festival, the BFO continues to bridge tradition and modern creativity. Under Maestro Fischer’s leadership, the orchestra remains a beacon of excellence, dedicated to its ultimate mission: "to dissipate clouds" through the power of music.

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Important Information