Around the Music Festival

The German opera magazine 《Opernwelt》 has announced its “Of the Year” awards for 2026. These awards are determined annually through the signed votes of music critics and journalists from Europe and the United States; this year, 40 individuals participated in the voting.

The Mainz State Theatre won this year’s “Best Opera House” award, recognized for its successful dramaturgy and bold seasonal programming. The award for “Best Opera” went to Brett Dean’s *Of One Blood*. Dean spent 14 years as a violist with the Berlin Philharmonic before transitioning to a career as a composer. Claus Guth, who directed the production, received the award for “Best Director.”

Meanwhile, the award for “Best Female Singer” went to Elena Stikhina (soprano), recognized for her portrayal of Joan in Tchaikovsky’s 《The Maid of Orléans》 at the Dutch National Opera & Ballet. The award for “Best Male Singer” went to Michael Spyres (baritone).

PHOTO：Theaters Ulm / Jochen Quast