(Johannes Neubert © Radio France / Christophe Abramowitz)

Grafenegg has named International cultural manager Johannes Neubert as its new Artistic Director.

Neubert will take the position starting in October 2026 and will succeed Rudolf Buchbinder. Neubert already has a close connection with Grafenegg as he was the Operations Manager of the festival from 2005 to 2010.

In the role of Artistic Director, he will be responsible for the Grafenegg Festival, as well as all of its own events including the “Seasons Sounds with the Tonkunstler Orchestra” as the resident orchestra and the educational programs (the Grafenegg Academy, Ink Still Wet and the residency of the European Union Youth Orchestra).

In a statement, Neubert said, “Grafenegg is unique in the world as a music location with international appeal and regional roots. Nowhere else will you find a place where nature, architecture, and cuisine accompany the musical experience so seductively and classical music is so accessible. I am therefore extremely pleased to be able to once again contribute to the further development of Grafenegg. I am particularly pleased that we have succeeded in retaining Rudolf Buchbinder as president of the festival in Grafenegg. My goal is to inspire people about classical music from all eras with the highest quality standards. The festival remains our flagship. Grafenegg is also a meeting place for me. Grafenegg should enable the exchange between stars and young talents, professionals and amateurs, artists and audiences in a special way.”