As my time in Linz draws to a close, I am proud to reflect on the impressive range of repertoire and substantial body of work I have achieved during my stay in Upper Austria, whilst at the Landestheater Linz Musiktheater and of course to celebrate some of the memorable highlights of this incredible journey.

I came to Austria determined to fully immerse myself in a new culture and language, eager to gain valuable experiences that would enhance both my personal and professional life – and I achieved that in every possible way! Initially, I arrived as the assistant to the choir director for a year, but the theatre extended my stay to an enriching three years, during which I worked in the role of deputy choir director and solokorrepetitor. These three seasons allowed me to dive deep into some of the complexities of the German language and the vibrant Austrian classical music scene, all while forging strong bonds with colleagues and locals. As I prepare to leave at the end of this current season in July, I take away not just incredible memories, but also a wealth of unforgettable performances, the warmth of the Austrian people, and invaluable skills that will undoubtedly propel my future endeavours in the arts.

In Summary:

21 Operas
6 Operettas
4 Musicals
1 Ballet
4 Chamber Works
5 World Premieres
9 Concerts

For me, the main-stage highlights include: New productions of Sweeney Todd, Der fliegender Holländer, La Juive, Die Fledermaus, Paganini and William Tell.

Other concert and chamber opera production highlights include: ‘Vanishings’ (co-production with Opera Massy), Der Findling (as part of the Bruckner 200th year celebrations) and Adam und Eva which premiered in the Schwetzinger Festspiele in Germany. However, one special mention goes to the cast of Arizona Lady – what fun that was!

Playing for the Ballet (Tanz Linz) production of Amor & Psyche was really special indeed! In this production, I played a cello and piano duo work called Lieux retrouvés by Thomas Adès and also a special arrangement of Après un rêve by Fauré for cello, piano and orchestra. Every performance really was magical.

Concert highlights have included fundraising events for local societies and charities, often supported with colleagues from the Extra-Choir of the Landestheater. However, one such benefit concert was with the Linzer String Quartet and was truly memorable experience. I’d also like to mention a special ‘duet’ recital with my super colleague, Tom Bitterlich (Music Director of the Musical dept at the Musiktheater).

My official farewell concert at the Musiktheater was jointly shared with Angela Simkin: „Mythos und Melancholie“ – and was supported by the ‘Friends of the Musiktheater’. I’m really looking forward to further recitals with Angela in the near future!

But my final concert in Austria to cap off this colourful three-year period, was at the birth house of Joseph and Michael Haydn, in Rohrau, NÖ.

I am looking forward to my return to the UK as my primary base in September 2026, with a range of exciting contracts and events already shaping up for the 2026-2028 seasons. The past three years in Austria have been invaluable, providing me with profound insights into music, Austria, and the dynamics of a high-pressure, fixed-position environment, along with the inevitable positive and negative impacts on individuals. I wish all my colleagues tremendous success in their future endeavours, no matter where their musical journeys lead them. I wish the Hauschor of the Musiktheater all the best of luck in their new chapter with Herr Obermair.

An die Menschen in Linz – die Linzer: Vielen Dank, dass ihr mich in eure Stadt eingeladen habt und mich so herzlich aufgenommen habt. Ich freue mich darauf, euch in nicht allzu ferner Zukunft wiederzusehen. Prost!

D.A.Barnard July 2026.