The Beethovenfest exchange project aims to bring together German and Georgian musical traditions, with a focus that extends beyond music. In June, approximately 20 young musicians from Germany, including members of the Federal Youth Orchestra and Federal Youth Choir, traveled to Tbilisi, Georgia, where they were struck by the city's vibrant atmosphere. However, they were also conscious of Georgia's complex political and social landscape, having witnessed pro-European protests in the city.
The German musicians collaborated with young Georgian musicians from the Tbilisi Youth Orchestra and local singers to prepare for a joint concert at the Beethovenfest in Bonn. They aimed to create a shared sound that would blend the musical traditions of both countries.
Mirian Kokhunaishvili, conductor and artistic director of the project, noted the emotional depth present in both Georgian and German music, emphasizing that while their expressions differ, the underlying emotions are similar. The final rehearsals in Bonn will lead to concerts on September 23 and 24, first in Bonn and then in Berlin, with live broadcasts on the DW Classical Music YouTube channel.
Kokhunaishvili highlighted the project's goal of introducing Georgian classical music to a broader audience while also addressing the geopolitical realities faced by Georgia. He expressed a desire to convey a message of hope for Europe, emphasizing shared values of human rights.
A notable feature of the program is a new composition by Georgian composer Mika Mdinaradze, which fuses Beethoven's choral piece "Europa steht!" with traditional Georgian songs. Mdinaradze described the work as a dialogue that reflects Georgia's identity within Europe.
The Beethovenfest Bonn has organized the Campus project since 2001, focusing on cultural exchange among young musicians from countries undergoing significant changes. Previous participants have included artists from Ukraine, Afghanistan, and Iran, with Georgia participating for the second time since 2003.
Sönke Lentz, orchestra director of the Federal Youth Orchestra, remarked that the project transcends music, fostering personal connections and cultural understanding amidst Georgia's challenging political context. The orchestra also included the Campus project in its international tour, performing in Georgia and receiving positive responses from audiences.
Tsotne Zedginidze, a 17-year-old Georgian pianist and composer, is the youngest commissioned composer in the project's history. He created "Chmebi: Georgian Fantasia," which draws on Georgian folk traditions and will be premiered in Bonn and Berlin. Zedginidze expressed his intention to authentically represent Georgian music while infusing it with his unique interpretation.
Star violinist Lisa Batiashvili, who supports young Georgian artists through her foundation, expressed her excitement for Zedginidze's premiere and reflected on the growing friendship between Germany and Georgia, highlighting the collaborative spirit among young musicians from both nations.