“I Don’t Want to Spend the Next Five Years Managing Crises,” Says Director of the Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra

Magyar Nemzet features an in-depth interview with Zsolt Horváth, the long-serving director of the Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra (PFZ) in Pécs. Horváth, who has been instrumental in shaping the orchestra's identity for decades, shares his vision for the upcoming five-year term, emphasizing a marketing-driven approach and the strategic importance of regional orchestras.

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I don't want to spend the next five years managing crises.

Horváth highlights the orchestra's dedication to contemporary music, a tradition deeply rooted in Pécs's musical culture. He notes collaborations with prominent Hungarian composers and the inclusion of international contemporary works, supported by initiatives like the Eötvös Péter Contemporary Music Foundation. The audience's positive reception to new works underscores the orchestra's success in fostering an appreciation for modern compositions.

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Our leading conductors are responsible for creating a unique, authentic sound, thanks to which the orchestra and its leading conductors can achieve incredible synergy.

A key focus for the PFZ is its role as a resident ensemble, not only enriching Pécs's cultural landscape but also extending its reach to surrounding towns. Horváth acknowledges the scarcity of symphony orchestras within a 150-kilometer radius, positioning the PFZ as a vital cultural provider for the region. The orchestra strives to offer uncompromising quality, integrating new contemporary pieces alongside established classics.

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We invite guest soloists based on the authentic interpretation of the given works.

Looking ahead, Horváth expresses a desire to avoid a reactive, crisis-management approach, preferring instead to focus on strategic development and artistic excellence. His leadership aims to ensure the Pannon Philharmonic Orchestra continues to be a beacon of high-caliber music, engaging audiences and contributing significantly to Hungary's vibrant cultural scene.

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Contemporary music has always received special attention in the musical culture of Pécs, so we are continuing a path that has been started.