In Austria, a country perhaps most known for its music, a new event is
occurring. Not far from Vienna in the rolling hills of Grafenegg, the
first annual International Music Festival took place last year.
Concerts have long been played in the area, but some remarkable
architectural additions have dramatically transformed the rural
setting.
Just last year saw the inauguration of the open-air Wolekenturm
– or Cloud Tower – with its miraculous roof thrusting skyward beyond
the level of the surrounding trees. The architects excavated a
natural depression in the landscape and inserted a stage and tiers of
seating. The connection between the audience and nature is obvious –
but perhaps most notable through a window at the back of the stage that
allows a direct view to the valley and changing colours of the sky in
the distance.
The second Grafenegg International Music Festival will be held 21 August to 7 September 2008. By Andrew J Wiener.