76. Festival of Young Artists Bayreuth

Dear visitors,
dear friends of the festival,

Festival of Young Artists Bayreuth,– a success story since 1950

Since more as 75 years, Bayreuth has been a place where young artists from all over the world come together, learn from each other, work together, and shape the future. What began in 1950 as a courageous initiative is now a vibrant international network, an innovative platform, a space for encounter, experimentation, and artistic excellence – driven by curiosity, openness, and a belief in the unifying power of art.

75 years of the Festival of Young Artists Bayreuth, means 75 years of intensive academic work, intercultural exchange, artistic courage, and continuous renewal. This history fills us with pride – and at the same time inspires us to constantly rethink the festival: as a place of education, as a laboratory for the future, and as a platform for young talents who shape our society artistically and humanely.

Looking ahead, we are focusing on the 2026 festival year under the motto RE:SONANCE. Resonance describes what our festival is all about: listening, responding, resonating. When young people from different cultures meet, it not only sparks artistic inspiration, but also builds trust, dialogue, and perspectives for peaceful coexistence. RE:SONANCE thus stands for artistic depth as well as social responsibility.

This attitude also shapes our values. We consciously open up wide spaces for resonance—for everyone who wants to listen and watch. Our concerts are accessible without financial barriers: instead of expensive ticket prices, we apply the principle of “pay what you think it's worth.” This makes music accessible to everyone – young people as well as seniors, curious minds, students, families, or people on a smaller budget. Art should connect, not exclude. This openness clearly sets us apart and is an expression of our non-profit identity.

Our long-standing tradition is both a foundation and an obligation. We face current challenges, develop new forms of cooperation, strengthen diversity and sustainability, and remain a festival that not only addresses the future, but actively shapes it – a “true festival of the future,” as our patron Markus Blume put it.

We cordially invite you to be part of this story, to discover spaces of resonance, and to listen to the future together with us. Updates and dates will follow shortly.

With great anticipation

Prof. Fredrik Schwenk, Artistic Director
Dr. h. c. Sissy Thammer, Festival Director