This summer–s Hochkultur concert series harmoniously unites Austrian music and the impressive Alpine nature of Zell am See-Kaprun. From 29th July to 6th August 2011 the region in the heart of Pinzgau invites guests to participate in a unique series of events staged against the backdrop of the stunning mountain scenery. Venues of Hochkultur are the summits of Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn as well as the Ferry Porsche Congress Center (FPCC) and Kaprun Castle down in the valley. It is not least the diversified programme of the concert series including classic music and gospel that lures connoisseurs and lovers of music from all over Europe to the region. On top of that the performances are free of charge.
On 29th July the Hungarian pianist and composer Havasi is opening the summery event with his performance at the FPCC. The fastest pianist in the world hits an average number of 498 keys every minute – an undisputed world record. But it is not only his playing skills that make his concerts such an ear candy. On top of that, he enthrals this audience with the one-of-a-kind interpretation of his own and widely known songs as well as with the combination of classic pieces and modern elements.
The quintet –Die Salonfähigen Saitenspringer– is presenting its new programme –Made in Austria– on Kitzsteinhorn on 30th July. At the Peakworld 3000, the charming musicians surprise their audience with a diversified repertoire covering Johann Strauss and even title songs of James Bond films. In addition, traditional Viennese tunes as well as popular music, evergreens and rock hits can be found on the playlist. Drums, bongos, and triangles bring a new focus to well-known compositions.
On the third day of the –Hochkultur– event guests can look forward to traditional and folksy tunes. On 31st July Zell–s town band is celebrating its passion for brass music and thus introduces visitors to the local culture. On the following day the summer concert of the Wiener Philharmonika Quartett is taking place at Zell–s parish hall. On 4th August, the rhythmic melodies of popular gospel songs like –Amazing Grace– and –Oh Happy Day– as well as of rare pearls like –Purple Religion–
and –Stand By Me– promise to carry the audience of the eight-member choir –Gospel meets Vienna– at Kaprun Castle away. 5th August is the day of classic music. The –Wiener Klassik Nonett– impresses its audience with the greatest masterpieces of Beethoven, Mozart and Brahms. But less widely known compositions by Adolphe Blanc, Georg Onslow and Jean Sibelius are on the ensemble–s programme, too, when playing live on the summit of Schmittenhöhe.
Just like every year, Hochkultur culminates in Zell–s Lake Festival on 6th August. Culinary treats, live music and games guarantee fun and entertainment for young and old alike. The highlight of the day is without a doubt the amazing firework which will illuminate the nightly sky above Zell am See.
For more information on the –Hochkultur– concert series in Zell am See- Kaprun please visit www.zellamsee-kaprun.com on the Internet.
Located in the vicinity of the Hohe Tauern National Park, Zell am See- Kaprun with its 15,000 beds and two million annual overnight stays is one of the most important Austrian holiday regions. The interplay of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, Schmittenhöhe, and Lake Zell boasting drinking water quality make the region unique. Central holiday offers in the summer season are golfing on two championship courses, hiking and water sports. Even skiing is an option – thanks to the glacier on Kitzsteinhorn at an altitude of 3,029 metres. In the winter, snow can be taken for granted here as well as on the other 138 kilometres of ski runs – regardless of the weather. 54 state-of-the-art cable car and lift facilities take guests to the summits. Freeskiers and snowboarders find perfect conditions in two snow parks, one of which has received an award by the German automobile club ADAC.