In this live edition of Club9 on March 17, 2026, I speak with Jakob Seiwald, Kurmusik Director in Bad Ischl and founder and conductor of the Ischler Symphoniker, about Franz Schubert in the context of the upcoming concert on March 21 at the Congress- and Theatre House Bad Ischl.

At the center of the conversation is Schubert’s music and its lasting relevance: its human depth, emotional directness, and timeless resonance. Jakob shares insights into his personal connection to Schubert and reflects on why this music continues to speak so clearly to audiences today.

We also discuss the concert program of the Ischler Symphoniker and the significance of its dramaturgical structure within the Kulturkammergut winter program 2026. Another focus lies on the challenges of performing Schubert with an orchestra, both from the perspective of the conductor and the musicians.

Finally, we explore what it means for Bad Ischl and the Salzkammergut to have a symphonic orchestra close to home, and the cultural value it brings to the region.