Cathedral Salzburg | © DomQuartier
Ouverture Spirituelle
Since 2012, during the opening days of the Salzburg Festival the Ouverture spirituelle has focused on the centuries-old tradition of sacred music and dialogue between religions. Besides having a central theme, the concerts are closely related to the overall Festival programme.
Concept
The concept of the Ouverture spirituelle is based on two main aspects: the centuries-old tradition of sacred music in Salzburg, as the seat of the prince-archbishops, and the dialogue between religions. Every year, sacred works by Catholic and Protestant composers are juxtaposed with those from other world religions. The dialogue takes place not only in music, but also in the Disputationes, the annual symposium attended by representatives of the great world religions as well as by prominent protagonists from culture and the sciences.
Venues
In addition to the Grosses Festspielhaus, the Ouverture spirituelle 2026 takes place at the Kollegienkirche, the Haus für Mozart, and the Salzburger Landestheater.
Program 2026
Ouverture Spirituelle 2026 at the Salzburg Festival is presented under the title “Miserere” and explores themes of guilt, repentance, and forgiveness. It opens with Miserere – Utopia / Currentzis, featuring works by Arvo Pärt and György Kurtág. With De profundis, the series connects with theater for the first time. Other programs, including Les Adieux, explore themes of transience and responsibility.
