Media Advisory - Vienna Philharmonic to address Nazi past at sold out symposium and commemorative chamber concert performance

TORONTO, March 13, 2014 /CNW/ - It has been almost one year since Austrian researchers published the full extent of Nazi collaboration by one of that country's leading cultural institutions, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. On March 17^th, a century after the start of World War I and 75 years since World War II began, the historian and the leader of the Orchestra involved in documenting that history will discuss their findings for the first time in Canada.

The evening, hosted by the Chumir Foundation for Ethics in Leadership and the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto, will include a unique panel that examines Vienna's identity as a wellspring of artistic creativity and explores the breakdown of Austrian society during two global conflicts. Panellists will also discuss Austria's delayed but now constructive efforts at reconciliation, reflect on how current tensions in Europe alarmingly mirror past dangerous attitudes and consider the ways to respond.

A special commemorative musical performance featuring a chamber music ensemble from the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra will follow.

WHAT:	Special Discussion and Musical Performance
	The Arts in Vienna: A Proud History, A Painful Past
WHO:	Oliver Rathkolb: One of Austria's most influential and prolific historians,
	Clemens Hellsberg: The Vienna Philharmonic's chairman and first violinist,
	Randall Hansen: Director, Centre for European, Russian and Eurasian Studies
	Valentin Inzko: Austrian High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina,
	Carol Off: Moderator and host of CBC Radio's, "As It Happens."
MUSIC:	Music: Vienna Philharmonic Chamber Ensemble
WHERE:	CBC Glenn Gould Studio
WHEN:	Monday, March 17, 2014

SOURCE: University of Toronto

For press inquiries, press passes, or request for interviews, please contact: David Nayman, Chumir Foundation for Ethics in Leadership, E-mail: [email protected], Phone: [phone]