Podcast #05: THE PROGRAM DIRECTORS - How to keep Audiences away from Concert Halls

In this episode of Classical Discoveries, we welcome Dr. Christoph Becher — former dramaturg and general director — to unpack the art and challenges of curating a concert season. Dr. Becher outlines the three-pronged approach involving the orchestra chief, guest conductor, and presenter, each bringing distinct goals and perspectives.

The discussion explores how radio symphony orchestras balance their mission to promote contemporary music with the need to attract audiences. Dr. Becher shares engaging anecdotes from his career — from championing Henze’s Raft of the Medusa to navigating hesitant presenters — while reflecting on audience resistance to modern and even some romantic composers like Dohnányi.

The hosts also discuss Dr. Becher’s upcoming book on Schoenberg, designed to make the composer’s music more accessible, alongside his innovative programming work at leading institutions. Highlights include his Hamburg concert series featuring surprise modern pieces and collaborations on major performances such as Dvořák’s The Spectre’s Bride.

Chapters
0:21 Introduction
1:06 Introducing our Guest – Christoph Becher
1:50 How to Prepare a Seasonal Concert Program
5:12 A Mission for Non-Standard Repertoire
13:19 Ideas Out of the Bathtub
14:43 The Schoenberg Problem
19:32 The Schoenberg Book
22:32 The Role of a Program Director
27:40 Recordings with the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra
29:29 Conclusion

💿 Featured Recordings 💿

1. Hans Werner Henze: Floß der Medusa — Capriccio C5482
   🎧 Listen: https://Naxos.lnk.to/C5482!Podcast

2. Ernst von Dohnányi: The Veil of Pierrette — Capriccio C5388
   🎧 Listen: https://Naxos.lnk.to/C5388!Podcast

3. Antonín Dvořák: The Spectre’s Bride — Capriccio C5315
   🎧 Listen: https://Naxos.lnk.to/C5315!Podcast

4. Kurt Weill: Propheten — Capriccio C5500
   🎧 Listen: https://Naxos.lnk.to/C5500!Podcast

5. Dohnányi / Weiner — Capriccio C5380
   🎧 Listen: https://Naxos.lnk.to/C5380!Podcast

6. Zemlinsky: Sinfonietta — Capriccio C5377
   🎧 Listen: https://Naxos.lnk.to/C5377!Podcast

Hosts: Jens F. Laurson (Journalist), Johannes Kernmayer (Producer), and Dr. Christoph Becher (Program Director)

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