Cristian Măcelaru’s Enescu Festival and Competition appointment highlighted by Musical America

Cristian Măcelaru’s Enescu Festival and Competition appointment highlighted by Musical America

Enescu Festival and Competition Names Artistic Director
By Nicholas Beard
Musical America
June 29, 2022

The appointment of Cristian Macelaru as the artistic director of the George Enescu International Festival and Competition has finally been made official by the Romanian Minister of Culture. The next competition, the 18th, is scheduled to start on September 4, also the date of the very first competition, 64 years ago. Total value of the prizes these days is 120,000 euros, along with concert appearances.

At a press conference yesterday, Macelaru spoke of his plans for the next three years—the length of his contract. In addition to maintaining the festival’s international profile, he said, “One of the first things we will add is a series of concerts for children through which we present and introduce to art and culture….It is something missing in today’s society, and I want this focus to be brought back through the Festival.” He also wants to expand cultural diversity and “challenge the public” with 20th and 21st century works rare to Romanians.

Macelaru is chief conductor of the WDR Sinfonieorchester and music director of l’Orchestre National de France and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music. He is also a popular guest on international podiums.

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