About Grafenegg

Grafenegg lies nestled between the Wachau region and Vienna. With its historic castle, sprawling park, and extraordinary performance venues, Grafenegg is far more than just a concert venue: it is a place of beauty, inspiration, and connection. Here, people come together to experience superbly performed music in a unique atmosphere, discover new perspectives, and share special moments with one another.

The cultural program spans the entire year. The Jahreszeitenklänge series accompanies audiences through fall, winter, and spring, with the traditional holiday concerts at Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Easter serving as highlights.

Starting in 2027, the summer season will feature three distinct series, each with its own unique character. Summer Sounds stands for musical diversity in a relaxed atmosphere, ranging from popular classical music and grand symphonies to operetta, musicals, film scores, and crossover. The Grafenegg Festival brings together the leading orchestras, conductors, and soloists of the international classical music scene and stands for the highest artistic excellence. With Heart of Europe, a new third pillar of the Grafenegg summer is being created in collaboration with the European Union Youth Orchestra (EUYO). This festival format combines musical excellence with European encounters and brings Europe to life through music.

When summer comes to an end and gives way to winter, Grafenegg takes on a contemplative atmosphere. The Grafenegg Advent invites visitors to enjoy the special atmosphere of the castle park even during the cold season, with music, culinary delights, and a diverse program for the whole family.

Johannes Neubert took over as artistic director of Grafenegg for the 2027 season. His vision combines international appeal, artistic excellence, and the power of connection. In doing so, he builds on the venue’s established strengths and continues to develop Grafenegg as a vibrant meeting place for artists and audiences from around the world.

Grafenegg remains closely connected to Rudolf Buchbinder, who, as artistic director for over two decades, left a decisive mark on the venue and developed it into one of Europe’s most significant music centers. As president of the Grafenegg Festival, he continues to guide Grafenegg’s future and remains a central figure in the local cultural scene.

Grafenegg has always seen itself as a place for fostering talent and fostering exchange, as evidenced by numerous initiatives over the past two decades. Through projects such as the Ink Still Wet composer-conductor workshop, young musicians, composers, and conductors are given the opportunity to collaborate with experienced artists and gain valuable practical experience.

With the European Union Youth Orchestra—which has had its official home and administrative headquarters in Grafenegg since 2023—this vision takes on an additional European dimension. The new festival Heart of Europe builds on this and makes Grafenegg a place where Europe’s musical future comes together.

In 2027, the insights gained through the Grafenegg Academy will also be incorporated into the new Grafenegg Festival Orchestra, led by Vladimir Jurowski, where outstanding musicians at the beginning of their professional careers will perform side by side with experienced musicians from Europe’s and the world’s top orchestras.

Grafenegg’s special atmosphere is also shaped by its extraordinary performance venues. The Wolkenturm is one of Europe’s most impressive open-air stages and uniquely blends nature and culture. The Auditorium offers ideal conditions for concerts and musical projects year-round. The Rudolf Buchbinder Hall provides another world-class concert venue, significantly expanding Grafenegg’s artistic offerings and opening up new opportunities for music, social interaction, and cultural exchange.

The interplay of music, nature, and cuisine also contributes to the special quality of a stay in Grafenegg. The dining options in the castle park invite guests to linger, while a commitment to sustainability and responsible practices keeps the focus firmly on the future.

Thus, throughout the year, Grafenegg combines artistic excellence with hospitality, inspiration, and connection—and, with Summer Sounds, the Grafenegg Festival, and Heart of Europe starting in 2027, it will more than ever become a place where music brings people together.