Schrammel.Klang.Festival: Birds and other critters join the music

Twenty years after its inception, Zeno Stanek's Schrammel.Klang.Festival in Litschau has evolved from a daring experiment into a celebrated cultural event. Stanek, a theater director, recalls initial skepticism from locals, with many calling the idea "crazy." However, the community and the mayor embraced the concept, leading to its successful establishment.

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Sustainability is not enough. It is about healing, about regeneration.

The festival's unique setting in the Waldviertel region of Austria, amidst forests and by the Herrensee lake, provides natural stages for musicians. Stanek emphasizes a philosophy of "regeneration" and "healing" rather than mere sustainability. The event spans two weekends, attracting audiences who appreciate the close connection to nature. Wildlife, including lynx and large catfish, have been observed, but it's the birds that most notably interact with the music, often singing along, which Stanek considers a "third dimension" of the festival.

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People initially said he had a bird, that it would never work. But the population was very positive. The mayor too. We just did it, without thinking too much.

Stanek aims to foster intergenerational exchange, bringing together established and emerging artists. Projects like the collaboration between Anna Mabo and the Tschuschenkapelle, facilitated by the festival, exemplify this goal. He notes that young artists often begin their careers at the festival's associated theater, gaining exposure that propels them forward.

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Lynx have been sighted, wolves no. The catfish in the lake react very stoically. There are specimens up to 2.5m long swimming in there.

Initially, the audience was older, but it has become increasingly youthful over the years. Family attendance has also grown, with children actively participating in the musical experience rather than requiring separate entertainment. Stanek expresses delight that children engage directly with the music, a testament to the festival's evolving and inclusive atmosphere.

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They are the musicians of the animal world. Specimens appear that are never there otherwise and react particularly to violins and accordions. They really sing along. The birds are the third dimension of the Schrammel.Klang.Festival.