Conductor Gabriel Feltz Has Passed Away.

Gabriel Feltz, the General Music Director of both Theater Kiel and the Dortmund Philharmonic, has tragically passed away suddenly at the University Hospital in Essen. The news was confirmed by both Theater Kiel and the Theater Dortmund.

Born in 1971 in East Berlin, Feltz began his career with early stints in Lübeck, Bremen, and Hamburg. He then served as deputy to GMD Lothar Zagrosek at the Stuttgart State Opera. It was in Dortmund, however, where Feltz truly made his mark.

In Dortmund, Feltz was known for his ambitious performances of Mahler cycles, support for contemporary composers like Rihm and Lachenmann, and internationally noticed opera productions. His precise beat technique, analytical eye, and keen sense for balance were widely appreciated.

Feltz's passion for music was evident in his interviews, where he emphasized his belief in music as a communal process. He believed that a concert was successful if it allowed for "genuine encounter between stage and audience." In fact, he once stated, "Our profession is service to music."

Feltz has been at the helm of the Dortmund Philharmonic since 2013 and concurrently, he has been the General Music Director of the city of Dortmund. His tenure with the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra began in 2017.

Feltz's approach to conducting was unique. He believed that the key to success was not his self-presentation, but "breathing together with the orchestra." He was a perpetually curious musician without pretenses, understanding music as teamwork.

Feltz's interpretations of the classical-romantic core repertoire and his advocacy of contemporary music earned him international recognition. In the last season, he conducted the Ring cycle in Dortmund under the direction of Peter Konwitschny.

The Theater Kiel and the Theater Dortmund have yet to announce plans for a memorial service. As the music world mourns the loss of this talented and humble conductor, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of musicians.