Motto “Moving the world with music” characterized concerts from bel canto to swing
DARMSTADT – Under the motto "Moving the world with music," the 2025 Darmstadt Residence Festival attracted numerous visitors to the city's historic sites. Despite a chilly opening, the festival developed into a series of rousing and moving concerts, culminating in the finale under the summer heat.
The opening concert in the courtyard of the regional council building featuring Celtic Escapades from Ireland got off to a lively start. This was followed by concerts by the Swedish a cappella boy band Ringmasters, the ensemble The Erlkings performing Schubert and Schumann, the recorder quartet Flautando Köln, and the PHANTASM Viol Consort.
At the Mathildenhöhe, the Original Prague Syncopated Orchestra the audience with 1920s Charleston sounds, augmented by the dance group Sunny Side Swing. Sandie Wollasch & SPARK provided an energetic crossover.
A highlight was the Italian Opera Night featuring the Darmstadt Concert Choir, the Darmstadt Court Orchestra, and international soloists under the direction of Wolfgang Seeliger. Around 1,000 guests enjoyed an evening of bel canto.
The matinee with Ukrainian soprano Nadiia Scheremetieva and the Al Watan ensemble impressively demonstrated how music builds bridges between cultures.
Artistic Director Wolfgang Seeliger summarized: "Music can move people – in the mind, in the heart, and even on the dance floor. It connects people and allows them to experience the vitality of cultural exchange."
He also thanked the numerous volunteers as well as the sponsors and patrons whose support made the festival possible despite increased costs.
Further information is available at www.residenzfestspiele.de .
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM)
Photos: Nikolaus Heiss
