Villa Musica

When it comes to top-level support in chamber music, Villa Musica is the premier institution in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Since 1986, the foundation of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, in which Südwestrundfunk (SWR) is also involved, has been dedicated to promoting young virtuosos on their career path in chamber music.

This is achieved through a unique concept: around 80 scholarship holders receive training at the Villa Musica Academy at Schloss Engers in Neuwied, working on joint projects with renowned instructors. Over the past decades, more than 3,000 young musicians have gained valuable knowledge and essential practical experience for their careers in chamber music thanks to Villa Musica.

As part of this special support program, projects are developed that culminate in joint concerts throughout Rhineland-Palatinate.

Villa Musica has yet another mission: to make high-caliber chamber music accessible to a wide audience in many locations across the state.

With more than 40 concert venues in Rhineland-Palatinate, up to 140 concerts take place each season.

Since September 2024, Prof. Ervis Gega has been the artistic director of Villa Musica Rhineland-Palatinate. A highly renowned violinist, she has been an honorary professor at the Mainz University of Music for many years. As a former Villa Musica scholarship holder, she knows the state foundation like few others. In coordination with the board, chaired by the Rhineland-Palatinate Secretary of State for Culture, Prof. Dr. Jürgen Hardeck, she plans the program.

Additionally, an advisory board composed of prominent figures from public and cultural life serves as a consultative body. The chairmanship traditionally lies with the management of SWR – currently, SWR Director General Prof. Dr. Kai Gniffke serves as the chairman of the advisory board.