The annual Graduation Concert of the VMI – Vienna Music Institute at Porgy & Bess is one of the highlights of the academic year. For the students, performing on this internationally renowned stage for jazz and improvised music represents a special distinction. It is not only an opportunity to showcase artistic achievements, but also a moment in which the personal and artistic development of the past years becomes visible and is celebrated.

As the artistic culmination of their studies, this concert marks a defining moment in the lives of the graduates. It embodies both the pride of having reached an important goal and the anticipation of a new chapter: the question of future artistic paths and opportunities. A performance at Porgy & Bess stands for artistic quality, professional maturity, and the beginning of a new stage in one’s musical career.

For more than 25 years, VMI has represented an impressive diversity and an international community of students and faculty from around 30 countries - a community that continues to grow. This openness is reflected in a wide range of musical expressions, a vibrant culture of exchange, and the distinctive artistic concepts developed by its students. The creative diversity of the VMI – Vienna Music Institute brings together students and educators from the fields of songwriting, instrumental and vocal pedagogy, music production, media composition, composition pedagogy, electronic music, creative musicianship, concert performance, and music business.

This special afternoon at Porgy & Bess presents a selected glimpse into this creative and musical diversity. Two ensembles will perform programs that have been developed with dedication, precision, and artistic sensitivity. One of this year’s graduation ensembles is led by Conrad Schrenk. He shares his extensive expertise with the students and supports them in developing creative arrangements. Conrad Schrenk is a musician, composer, arranger, and producer, and is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most technically accomplished guitarists. Through collaborations with numerous Austrian and international artists - including Lionel Richie, Wolfgang Ambros, Georg Danzer, and Falco - he has established himself as a respected figure on the international music scene.

Another graduation ensemble is directed by Simon Raab, one of the outstanding pianists of the Austrian music scene. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and distinctions. Through his creative impulses, he guides and inspires students in the development of their artistic programs. Simon Raab regularly demonstrates his musical versatility and artistic excellence on international stages and at renowned jazz festivals with his band Purple is the Color. His artistic work is further shaped by collaborations with ensembles and artists such as ProBrass, Yasmo & die Klangkantine, Oliver Steger, Andreas Lettner, and many others.

For me, it is a great honor, as a graduate of VMI’s programs in Songwriting, Vocal Pedagogy, and Vocal Performance, to write these words for this year’s Graduation Concert. During my own studies, I had the privilege of performing on the stage of Porgy & Bess on three separate occasions. Each of those experiences remains unforgettable, and I am delighted that the students of the VMI – Vienna Music Institute will have the opportunity to create their own memories on this remarkable stage.

Please join me in looking forward to a wonderful concert experience! Julia Brandstetter