GUSTAV MAHLER FESTIVAL
Experience Gustav Mahler & Friedrich Gulda at the place where they were created.
Experience the works of Gustav Mahler and Friedrich Gulda at the place where they were created.
Steinbach am Attersee: 18 to 22 June 2025
Mahler and death
The history of the reception of Gustav Mahler's works is rich in references to his apparently intense preoccupation with death. Indeed, many of his songs and the majority of his symphonies are dedicated to the theme of transience - be it through texts, programmatic elements or purely musical allusions. But what lies behind this central aspect of his artistic work? What does it reveal about Mahler's personality and the nature of his compositions?
All events at a glance
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Gustav Mahler and experience his Resurrection Symphony for the first time in the place that sparked his artistic creativity. The concert in Steinbach am Attersee is not only a musical highlight, but also creates a timeless connection between Mahler's work and the inspiring nature of the Salzkammergut.
Two great composers and an exceptional young talent
Gustav Mahler, Friedrich Gulda and Emilian Schmid
Gustav Mahler
Gustav Mahler
Mahler came to Steinbach am Attersee for the first time in the summer of 1893, and the breathtaking surroundings worked wonders for Mahler's creativity. Over the course of four summers (until 1896), he completed half a dozen songs and two enormous symphonies (2nd and 3rd) here in his purpose-built composer's cottage.
Friedrich Gulda
Friedrich Gulda
Friedrich Gulda lived in Weißenbach am Attersee from 1962 until his death. Here he sought and found the seclusion and peace necessary for his work. It was here that he composed and interpreted his music - from classical and jazz to free music and youthful dance music. Gulda is buried at the local cemetery in Steinbach.
Emilian Schmid
Emilian Schmid
In the first part of the concert on 1 June, exceptional talent Emilian Schmid plays Friedrich Gulda's cello concerto.
The concert begins with Gulda's "Electronic declaration of love to the Salzkammergut". The cello concerto is undoubtedly a masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of traditional classical music: a unique fusion of folk music, jazz and classical music.
