We mourn the loss of Gerda Fröhlich

It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of our Honorary Artistic Director, Dr. Gerda Fröhlich, who died on November 7, 2025. As a founding member of staff from 1969 and ultimately as Artistic Director for many years from 1980 to 2003, she decisively shaped the Carinthian Summer Festival and, with her artistic vision, developed it into a significant cultural meeting place of international standing. With great dedication, artistic flair, and organizational skill, she connected the music, the artists, and the audience in a unique way.

Artistic director Nadja Kayali recalls with great gratitude:

Gerda Fröhlich laid the foundation for the Carinthian Summer Festival. I always feel that I can build upon this foundation in my work at the festival. I am very proud that my predecessor was an extraordinary woman who so impressively fulfilled a cultural leadership role, especially at a time when women were not usually found in such positions. I am delighted that we were able to conduct a wonderful radio interview with her on Ö1 during my first season in 2024, in which she shared her personal story with the festival. The Carinthian Summer Festival will always cherish the memory of Gerda Fröhlich and gratefully remember her pioneering work.