Felix Mildenberger on the move

When Paavo Järvi works with the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich, an assistant conductor sits in the hall with him. These are young conductors who learn from him, but also support him, for example by checking the sound balance in the hall or comparing what they hear with the scores. Occasionally, they conduct themselves - even after their "term of office" has ended.

In the current season, all four previous assistant conductors are leading the orchestra. Where do they stand today? And what do they take away from their time in Zurich? Their answers to these questions are as different as they are.

Felix Mildenberger was Assistant Conductor at the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich in the 2019/20 season and is now returning with the family concert "Peter and the Wolf".

Felix, we're talking in September 2024 - what projects are you currently pursuing?

I'm currently preparing various works that will be on the programme for me for the first time in the next few weeks, including symphonies by Dora Pejačević and Alexander Scriabin. I'm also looking forward to "old favourites" such as Stravinsky's "Le sacre du printemps" and music by Mendelssohn and Schubert.

What did you take away from your time as Assistant Conductor?

Many memories of great musical moments, inspiring conversations with musicians from the Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich and with Paavo Järvi, good contacts and instructive insights into music and orchestral psychology, as well as insights into orchestra management, season planning, etc.

Which encounter with the orchestra do you particularly remember?

The concerts in which I was able to conduct the orchestra myself, as well as our joint tour in January 2020.

What phrase from Paavo Järvi has stayed with you to this day?

"Keep it simple. And never lose humour!"

What advice would you give to future assistant conductors?

Be curious and open-minded, take in as much as possible, ask questions, observe. And of course enjoy your time.