Kassel general music director to become chief conductor

The General Music Director of the Staatstheater Kassel, Francesco Angelico, will focus exclusively on concert performances as Chief Conductor with immediate effect. This was announced by Hesse's Minister of Culture Timon Gremmels (SPD) on Wednesday. ‘I am delighted to be able to continue making music with the Kassel State Orchestra until the end of my tenure,’ explained Angelico, whose contract will expire in summer 2025 after eight years.

The background to the change is a difference of opinion between the Italian conductor and the orchestra on the one hand and Artistic Director Florian Lutz on the other with regard to the music theatre dramaturgy. According to press reports, the musicians complained that they were not being given the necessary space in the music theatre productions and also the music itself. As a result, more than 98 per cent of orchestra members voted against further collaboration with Lutz in an internal vote. His contract, which initially ran until 2026, was extended until 2031 in the spring.

‘Given the great merits that the General Music Director has earned with and for the State Theatre Orchestra, it is important to have found a way that allows Francesco Angelico the artistic focus he desires and at the same time serves a respectful cooperation,’ explained Kassel's Lord Mayor Sven Schoeller on behalf of the City of Kassel as the continued sponsor of the State Theatre.