- bayreuth's long-standing chorus leader steps down
Long-standing Chorus Master of Bayreuth Festival, Eberhard Friedrich, announces Departure
It's been confirmed by festival spokesperson Hubertus Herrmann that Eberhard Friedrich, the long-time Chorus Master at Bayreuth Festival, has decided to step down. Previously, this was reported in the "Nordbayerischer Kurier", who also shared excerpts from a letter Friedrich wrote to the festival directors. In the letter, he expressed concerns about potential changes to the festival choir due to circumstances beyond his control, which could potentially impact both the sound, musical quality, and precision of the choir.
Unnecessary Resignation
Interestingly, it seems an unnecessary resignation as Friedrich, aged 66, was set to have a meeting with the festival management on August 26, due to his retirement being scheduled for 2025. The process of finding a successor is also reportedly advanced. Herrmann shared that they would provide updates on the succession by the end of the current festival season, which concludes on August 27 with "Tannhäuser."
Last Year's Financial Cuts
The decision for cuts in 2020 was made by the administrative board of the renowned opera festival, in response to an economic plan proposed by the management, which impacted the choir as well.
Fear of Mass Layoffs
The Association of German Opera and Dance Ensembles (VdO) voiced fears of 'mass layoffs' due to a 40% reduction in the number of permanent choir members, from 134 to 80. The festival, however, referred to this as a 'restructuring' of the festival choir, explaining that it will now consist of a main choir and a specialized choir, allowing the traditional 134 choir members to continue being a prominent feature in prominent choir works.
Reason for Financial Cuts
The festival attributed these cost-cutting measures to "significant cost increases" affecting all opera houses, including high energy costs, expensive materials, and increased personnel costs due to high salary agreements in the public sector. Friedrich, who joined the Bayreuth Festival Chorus as an assistant in 1993 and took over leadership in 2000, had not yet publicly commented on these cost-cutting measures. The choir, praised by the audience in the first week of the festival, continued to shine in every performance they participated in.
Bavarian Connection
Eberhard Friedrich's tenure as Chorus Master at Bayreuth Festival spans over two decades, showcasing his deep-rooted commitment to Bavarian music culture.
Bavarian Legacy
Frederick's departure from Bayreuth Festival may bring changes, but his legacy as a champion of Bavarian choral music is set to endure, influencing future generations of choir masters.
