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 colors of
the sky in the distance.
The second Grafenegg International Music Festival will be held August 21 to September 7, 2008. By Andrew J Wiener