In an unprecedented move, the Bayreuth Festival has named conductor Christian Thielemann official “Music Director,” according to a statement by festival spokesman Peter Emmerich quoted in Die Presse. Until now, Thielemann’s position has been that of “musical advisor” (musikalischer Berater.)   

In an email to parterre.com, Emmerich confirmed “the function and the title of music director… has not been given in the present form. [In] 1931 acted Wilhelm Furtwängler for a very short time as ‘musical director’ of the festival, but that situation is obviously not comparable to the present.”

La Cieca

James Jorden (who wrote under the names "La Cieca" and "Our Own JJ") was the founder and editor of parterre box. During his 20 year career as an opera critic he wrote for the New York Times, Opera, Gay City News, Opera Now, Musical America and the New York Post. He also raised his voice in punditry on National Public Radio. From time to time he directed opera, including three unsuccessful productions of Don Giovanni. He also contributed a regular column on opera for the New York Observer. James died in October 2023.

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