At the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra will appear in close succession at prestigious festivals in Hungary and across Europe that hold a prominent place in the classical music world. In the spirit of artistic excellence and versatility, the ensemble is equally at home in concert halls, on open-air stages, and in historic castles and churches. These invitations represent professional recognition, as the orchestra is a regular guest at several festivals and a permanent fixture at the most significant cultural events.


KaposFest – International Music and Arts Festival
Wednesday, 13 August 2025, 6:00 p.m. – Szivárvány Cultural Palace, Kaposvár
KaposFest is one of Hungary’s most prominent annual classical music events, bringing the world’s finest artists together in Kaposvár since 2010. The festival is not only for chamber music enthusiasts, but embraces the full spectrum of classical music, offering an exciting dialogue between contemporary and traditional works. KaposFest is distinguished by its exceptional artistic quality and diverse programmes, often placing works by Hungarian composers at the centre. It is a unique opportunity for young talents and internationally renowned performers to meet, and to bring classical music to a broader audience.
Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra
Artistic Director: István Várdai
Concertmaster: Péter Tfirst
Programme:
• Weinberg: Concertino for Cello and Strings, Op. 43
• Mendelssohn: Concerto for Violin, Piano and Strings in D minor, MWV O4
• Dvořák: Serenade for Strings in E major, Op. 22
Zemplén Festival
Sunday, 17 August 2025, 8:00 p.m. – Courtyard of Rákóczi Castle, Sárospatak
The Zemplén Festival is the largest and most diverse summer cultural event series in Northern Hungary, welcoming lovers of the arts and traditions since 1992. Its special character lies in the fact that performances take place in historic and natural settings – castles, fortresses, churches, and open-air stages – creating a truly unique atmosphere. Alongside classical concerts, the programme also features theatre, dance, gastronomy and local culture, offering visitors a rich and complex experience. The festival supports the development of young artists and regularly hosts international performers, thereby enriching Hungary’s cultural life.
Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra
Artistic Director: István Várdai
Concertmaster: Péter Tfirst
Programme:
• B. Marcello: Introduzione, Aria and Presto
• Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 9 in C major for Strings
• Dvořák: Serenade for Strings in E major, Op. 22
Symfonia Umenia (Slovakia)
Monday, 1 September 2025, 6:00 p.m. – Csáky Palace, Bratislava
Symfonia Umenia is one of Slovakia’s foremost classical music festivals, bringing together leading performers from across the region and all of Europe. Its mission is to offer the local audience extraordinary musical experiences, often featuring rarely heard works or unique instrumental combinations. The festival plays an important role in connecting the international music scene with local culture, presenting not only well-known classical pieces but also exciting chamber music programmes. The participation of the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra in this prestigious event is both a mark of professional recognition and an opportunity to reach new audiences. Artistic Director István Várdai will also appear as soloist.
Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra
Artistic Director: István Várdai
Concertmaster: Péter Tfirst
Programme:
• Bartók: Divertimento
• Mozart: Violin Concerto in D major, K. 218
• Tchaikovsky: Serenade for Strings
Allegro Vivo Festival (Austria)
Friday, 5 September 2025, 7:30 p.m. – KonzertHaus Weinviertel, Ziersdorf
Allegro Vivo is one of Austria’s most prestigious chamber music festivals, which for more than four decades has provided a meeting place for artists and music lovers alike. Many of its concerts take place in historic settings such as castles and churches, creating an intimate atmosphere in which the musical experience becomes truly unique. The festival’s mission is to foster a living connection between performers and audiences, making every concert a special event where art and intimacy go hand in hand. The appearance of the Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra pays tribute to the festival’s rich musical heritage, with concertmaster Péter Tfirst also performing as soloist.
Franz Liszt Chamber Orchestra
Artistic Director: István Várdai
Concertmaster: Péter Tfirst
Programme:
• Vivaldi: The Four Seasons
• J. S. Bach: Suite in B minor, BWV 1067
• Grieg: Two Melodies