news

Norman Reinhardt featured on Medici TV

Max Potter Steps into a New Chapter with Santuzza

Soula Parassidis Dressed by Daphne Valente for Sappho‑Inspired Shoot

Maddalena Del Gobbo Collaborates with Bulgari Jewels at the Vienna Philharmonic Ball

Living Opera Collaborates with Bristol Hotel in Vienna

Who Is Our Ideal Client?

Thinking Outside the Box – Defining the Market for Art and Culture

A New Vision for Arts and Culture Management

10 min read

Jun 28, 2025

Norman Reinhardt Featured on Medici TV in Strauss’s Capriccio from Teatro Real Madrid
A Sophisticated Turn in a Philosophical Comedy of Love and Art

Tonight, American tenor Norman Reinhardt appears in one of Richard Strauss’s most elegant and conceptually rich operas—Capriccio—streaming on Medici TV in a landmark production from Teatro Real Madrid. Directed by Christof Loy and conducted by Asher Fisch, this staging brings renewed clarity to Strauss’s final opera, a work that trades spectacle for subtlety and stakes for satire.

A Role Rooted in Artistry, Not Display

Reinhardt sings the role of Flamand, a composer locked in a genteel battle of wits and aesthetics with poet Olivier (Andrè Schuen), both vying for the affection of the Countess Madeleine. Though Capriccio may lack the overt drama of Strauss’s earlier works like Salome or Elektra, it demands considerable finesse from its performers—both vocally and dramatically. As Flamand, Reinhardt delivers Strauss’s conversational lyricism with clarity and conviction, shaping musical phrases that are at once tender and intellectually alive.

The role places him in the center of an opera that is less a story than a dialogue—between characters, and between art forms. Flamand’s music, particularly his setting of Olivier’s sonnet, becomes a vehicle for exploring whether music or poetry more fully captures the essence of human feeling.

Capriccio: Music, Words, and the Artist’s Dilemma

Premiered in 1942, Capriccio is a metatheatrical opera that stages an 18th-century debate about artistic primacy: should opera privilege words or music? But beneath the polished surface of this “conversation piece,” as Strauss and librettist Clemens Krauss described it, lies a meditation on artistic responsibility, the nature of creation, and the impossibility of separating beauty from subjectivity.

Set in a château outside Paris during the Enlightenment, the opera’s refined setting mirrors its refined concerns. Under Loy’s direction, the production emphasizes the stylized, almost mannerist qualities of the piece, while allowing moments of genuine feeling to emerge—particularly in the complex emotional landscape surrounding the Countess’s choice (or refusal to choose) between her two suitors.

A Career Defined by Range and Intelligence

For Reinhardt, this role continues a pattern of high-caliber engagements that emphasize his versatility. Known for his performances in Mozart, Strauss, and 20th-century repertoire, Reinhardt brings an unusually clear diction and thoughtful phrasing to roles that often require more than vocal power. As Flamand, he strikes the balance between artistic passion and courtly restraint—a challenge not only of singing but of characterization.

A Global Stage for a Chamber Opera

With Teatro Real’s production reaching audiences worldwide via Medici TV, this Capriccio offers viewers a rare opportunity to encounter Strauss’s most intimate opera in a richly realized staging. It also places Reinhardt before an international audience in a role that demands—and rewards—artistic nuance.

10 min read

Jun 24, 2025

Max Potter Steps into a New Chapter with Santuzza

This fall, mezzo-soprano Max Potter makes her role debut as Santuzza in Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana with Opera Santa Barbara. The engagement marks a new milestone in Potter’s trajectory as she embraces the emotionally rich and vocally demanding world of dramatic Italian repertoire.

A Breakout Year of Range and Risk

Potter’s 2024-2025 season has showcased her artistic range and interpretive agility. She opened the year with a scene-stealing performance as Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro, also with Opera Santa Barbara, bringing freshness and nuance to the Mozartian classic. Shortly after, she debuted in Verdi’s Requiem with the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale, where her performance was praised for its vocal authority and emotional presence. With Santuzza, Potter now turns to a role that requires both physical stamina and unflinching dramatic intensity.

Why Cavalleria Rusticana Still Matters

Premiered in 1890, Cavalleria Rusticana is a cornerstone of the verismo tradition—a genre of Italian opera focused on real-life emotion, often set among the working class. At just one act, the opera condenses themes of betrayal, passion, and retribution into a taut narrative, set in a Sicilian village on Easter morning. Santuzza—a woman betrayed by her lover and condemned by her community—is at the emotional center of the work.

The Role of Santuzza: Power, Pain, and Presence

Portraying Santuzza is not simply about vocal heft. The role requires a singer who can inhabit psychological complexity and sustain dramatic intensity across the opera’s short but explosive arc. For a mezzo-soprano like Potter, known for her vocal warmth and grounded stage presence, Santuzza offers an ideal outlet to explore new dramatic territory without compromising vocal integrity.

A Defining Moment with Opera Santa Barbara

Opera Santa Barbara’s production gives Potter a platform to deepen her collaboration with a company that has already played a formative role in her recent growth. With a creative team committed to nuance and clarity, the production promises to foreground the raw emotional stakes that make Cavalleria Rusticana endure with audiences across generations.

Looking Ahead

With this role debut, Max Potter continues to expand her artistic profile in meaningful and deliberate ways. Whether in Mozart, Verdi, or Mascagni, she brings a distinctive combination of vocal richness and interpretive thoughtfulness that positions her as an artist with staying power—and an evolving story still very much in motion.

10 min read

Jun 15, 2025

Soula Parassidis Collaborates with Daphne Valente for Sappho-Inspired Shoot

This week in Athens, soprano Soula Parassidis joined forces with leading Greek artists to produce the first visual material for Muse of the Golden Throne, a new multidisciplinary project developed by Living Opera in collaboration with partners in Athens, Los Angeles, Vienna, and Washington, D.C. The images mark the launch of a broader initiative that will unfold through live performances and installations—bridging music, history, technology, and visual design.

A Contemporary Frame for Ancient Texts

At the heart of Muse of the Golden Throne is a one-hour song cycle for voice and orchestra, composed around the surviving lyric fragments of the ancient poet Sappho and sung in English. Designed to be flexible in presentation, the work will be performed both with full orchestra and in more intimate concert settings with piano reduction.

A Visual Introduction, Not a Standalone Gesture

The visual campaign reunited Parassidis with two collaborators. Daphne Valente—known for her sculptural designs grounded in classical aesthetics—previously dressed Soula for Behind the Curtain, Living Opera’s podcast series filmed during Parassidis’s debut at the Greek National Opera. Photographer Kosmas Koumianos, widely published in Elle, Madame Figaro, and other international outlets, last worked with Parassidis in 2023 for a Maria Callas centennial shoot in collaboration with Vassilis Zoulias.

Three Components, One Initiative

Muse of the Golden Throne will take shape across three core formats:

  • A studio recording of the full song cycle for voice and orchestra
  • A live recital program, featuring the complete cycle or curated selections, with optional academic or cultural discussions
  • An immersive experience, designed to be presented either in conjunction with live performance or as a standalone installation

Each format will adapt to the venue and audience, allowing the project to move fluidly between traditional and nontraditional spaces.

What Comes Next

CM Culture Management is supporting the international rollout of this Living Opera initiative, with presentations already in development in Washington, D.C., Vienna, Paris, and Athens. Muse of the Golden Throne is part of Living Opera’s ongoing mission to expand the reach of classical music through interdisciplinary work. For Parassidis, it marks the next step in her evolution as an artist who is not only vocally accomplished but also actively shaping the future of the art form. More details to be announced in the coming months.

10 min read

Jan 28, 2025

The Cultural Event of the Season

The Vienna Philharmonic Ball, held annually at the Musikverein in Vienna, is one of Europe’s most elegant cultural events. We’re thrilled for CM artist Maddalena Del Gobbo, renowned cellist and Deutsche Grammophon recording artist. Adorned in iconic Bulgari jewels and an elegant Lena Hoschek gown, Maddalena embodied a perfect fusion of artistry and timeless glamour at this year's event.

A Tradition of Excellence

Since 1924, the Vienna Philharmonic Ball has celebrated Vienna’s rich musical heritage. Set in the historic Golden Hall, the event features grand traditions like the opening procession and Viennese waltzes, showcasing Austria’s cultural identity to an international audience.

Bulgari: A Legacy of Elegance

Founded in 1884, Bulgari is an enduring symbol of Italian craftsmanship and sophistication. Known for bold designs and vibrant gemstones, the brand’s creations have graced icons across generations. Maddalena’s collaboration with Bulgari highlighted the shared values of excellence, creativity, and heritage.

Maddalena Del Gobbo: Timeless Artistry

A gifted artist celebrated for her sensitivity and precision, Maddalena Del Gobbo is a performer whose work bridges the traditional and the contemporary. Her presence at the Vienna Philharmonic Ball captured the essence of her artistry—a harmonious blend of elegance and innovation—perfectly complemented by Bulgari’s iconic designs.

CM Culture Management: Supporting Artists’ Visions

At CM Culture Management, we are dedicated to empowering artists to collaborate with brands that reflect their unique values and artistic vision. Maddalena’s partnership with Bulgari exemplifies the kind of meaningful opportunities that elevate both the artist and the art.

10 min read

Jan 23, 2025

As Living Opera reflects on the success of their recent album, All Is Bright, we are excited to share our collaboration with the iconic Bristol Vienna. This partnership went beyond providing a stunning backdrop for the album’s photoshoot; it brought together two brands united by their dedication to artistry, culture, and innovation.

A Photoshoot in Grandeur

The Bristol Vienna, with its opulent architecture and timeless elegance, was the ideal setting for All Is Bright. From shimmering chandeliers to sophisticated suites, the hotel’s spaces perfectly complemented the album’s themes of beauty and hope. The management team at the Bristol ensured the shoot highlighted the synergy between the hotel’s grandeur and the music’s timeless resonance, creating an unforgettable visual narrative.

Behind the Curtain: A Shared Vision

This collaboration extended to Living Opera’s podcast series, Behind the Curtain. Supported by the Bristol’s management, the podcast explores the classical music world’s untold stories and triumphs. The Bristol’s history of hosting celebrated artists makes it a natural partner for a series that inspires thoughtful dialogue and demystifies the industry for emerging talents.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

Living Opera and the Bristol Vienna share a respect for tradition and a drive for innovation. Just as the Bristol merges historic charm with modern luxury, Living Opera bridges classical artistry with contemporary storytelling, creating collaborations that elevate both brands.

Looking Ahead

With the release of All Is Bright and the continued success of Behind the Curtain, the partnership between Living Opera and the Bristol Vienna highlights the power of collaboration in inspiring and connecting people through art and culture. If you’re in Vienna, don’t miss experiencing the timeless elegance of the Bristol—a place where history and creativity shine.

10 min read

Jan 16, 2025

Who Is the Ideal Client for CM Culture Management?

At CM Culture Management, we’re passionate about working with visionary creators, platforms, and organizations that aim to redefine the future of arts, performance, and culture. To maintain the integrity of our mission and provide the best possible service, it’s important to partner with clients whose goals and values align with ours.

So, who is the ideal client for CM?

1. Visionaries with Big Ideas

Our clients are not just looking to maintain the status quo—they want to innovate, disrupt, and create something new. Whether it’s launching a groundbreaking multimedia project, designing a forward-thinking strategy for a cultural organization, or developing a new platform, we thrive on ambitious ideas.

2. Commitment to Excellence

We work best with individuals and organizations that value high-quality execution and have the resources, patience, and focus to see a project through. Excellence isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of our work together.

3. Open to Collaboration

Partnership is key to everything we do. Our clients trust us as strategic and creative collaborators, bringing their ideas to life through innovative solutions while respecting their vision and input.

4. A Long-Term Mindset

Whether it’s a multimedia project or a strategic consulting engagement, our ideal clients understand the importance of building for the future. They are ready to invest in thoughtful, sustainable solutions that deliver lasting impact.

5. Aligned with Our Mission

CM Culture Management is focused on shaping the future of arts and culture by blending tradition with innovation. If your goals align with this vision, we’d love to hear from you.

6. For Artists: A Vision Beyond Talent

At CM Culture Management, we look for artists who not only demonstrate exceptional talent but also bring a clear vision for their career and a professional, collaborative mindset. Working with us is a partnership, and we value clients who recognize the importance of investing in the expertise, time, and resources needed to achieve extraordinary results. Ideal clients understand that building a sustainable and impactful career requires mutual commitment and a shared dedication to excellence.

Is CM the Right Partner for You?

If you’re a creator, platform, or organization looking to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to reach out. However, if your needs don’t align with our expertise, we encourage you to explore other options to find the right fit. Our goal is to work with clients where we can deliver the most value and create something extraordinary together.

10 min read

Jan 2, 2025

The size of the classical music sector might appear modest at first glance. Statista estimates the global classical music market, including ticket sales, recordings, and digital platforms, to be valued at approximately $281 million in 2018 in the United States and Europe combined.

But to limit our understanding of the market for art and culture to traditional definitions like these is to overlook a vast and evolving landscape of what is possible.

Art and culture extend far beyond the concert halls and opera theaters. In fact, much of the classical community grew out of house concerts in the United States and Europe! By redefining our potential misconceptions of what classical music looks like, we uncover a much larger and more dynamic ecosystem—one that positions artists as central players not only in entertainment, but also in education, community building, and even corporate innovation.

The global art and entertainment industry is much bigger. PwC forecasted that the Media and Entertainment industry is expected to grow to $3.4 trillion by 2028, encompassing everything from film and streaming to live events and experiential platforms. Visual arts, theater, and immersive experiences are increasingly blurring the lines between traditional and new media. By considering classical music as part of this larger creative economy, we begin to see its potential to resonate with wider audiences and contribute to diverse industries.

For example, collaborations between classical musicians and digital platforms have led to exciting innovations, such as live-streamed concerts, virtual reality (VR) performances, and algorithm-curated playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. These formats not only expand access to classical music, but also integrate it into broader consumer habits. (For a future post: streaming platforms provide very little remuneration for artists, so they are not sustainable.)

Through our work with Living Opera, we have explained how artists can step beyond traditional venues to redefine their roles. In education, musicians are becoming advocates for interdisciplinary learning, bringing creativity into STEM fields to foster problem-solving and innovation. Community engagement programs leverage the power of music and art to address social issues, from mental health initiatives to urban revitalization projects.

Consider how orchestras now partner with corporations to provide immersive experiences for employees or how art installations appear in unexpected places like airports and hospitals.

This expanded view of the market for art and culture also repositions the artist. No longer confined to roles as performers, creators, or curators, today’s artists are entrepreneurs, digital innovators, and thought leaders. Agencies like ours aim to empower this evolution, connecting artists with nontraditional opportunities that align with their talents and aspirations. (And my research has also shown that artists who acquire some entrepreneurial training are able to command higher wages in the labor market.)

In a world where creativity is increasingly valued across all sectors, the market for art and culture is defined not just by traditional ticket sales or box office revenues but by its capacity to inspire, educate, and innovate. By thinking outside the box, we can redefine what it means to be an artist and explore the boundless opportunities within this ever-expanding market.

10 min read

Jan 1, 2025

The question for the classical music community is not “will it be relevant in the 21st century?”, but rather, “who will help carry the torch?” Classical music endures because it has withstood the test of time, inspiring people across generations and establishing a standard for artistic excellence. This era is no different in its potential; what has changed are the economic, social, and political circumstances that shape our reality.

Unfortunately, the current trajectory of the sector is unsustainable. The classical music industry is facing systemic challenges that threaten its long-term viability. My research has revealed that the income gap between artists and non-artists – even after accounting for differences in age, education, race, and other factors – has widened significantly. Between 2006 and 2021, this gap grew from -15% to -30%. Furthermore, the economic return on earning an arts degree has become, on average, negative; most arts graduates never recoup their educational investment. Compounding these challenges, my research also finds that opera companies are grappling with financial instability. Their net operating incomes have stagnated or declined, while the cities they serve are experiencing significant population shifts that impact their audience base.

These empirical findings, drawn from U.S. data, carry a cautionary message for European artists and arts institutions as well. The global interconnectedness of the arts means that these trends could have far-reaching implications beyond national borders.

The pressing question is: What do we do differently?

At CM Culture Management, our philosophy is straightforward: Artists must thrive. Thriving means more than artistic fulfillment; it’s about holistic success. If artists are not actively engaged and able to showcase their talents, they are not thriving. If they cannot financially sustain their careers, they are not thriving. While these statements may seem self-evident, they highlight glaring gaps in the current system.

We believe in expanding the possibilities for artists and the institutions that support them. The pie can get bigger. Our unique network and capabilities empower us to think beyond conventional, zero-sum strategies. Instead, we focus on innovative solutions that prioritize long-term growth and sustainability for the entire classical music ecosystem.

The future of classical music will be shaped by those who dare to think boldly, act decisively, and prioritize the well-being of the artists at its heart. By doing so, we ensure that this timeless art form continues to inspire and resonate for generations to come. Welcome to CM.

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Norman Reinhardt featured on Medici TV in Strauss’s Capriccio from Teatro Real Madrid in a landmark staging by Christof Loy.

This fall, mezzo-soprano Max Potter makes her role debut as Santuzza in Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana with Opera Santa Barbara.

Soula Parassidis joined forces with leading Greek artists to produce the first visual material for Muse of the Golden Throne, a new multidisciplinary project developed by Living Opera.

Iconic Partnerships: Maddalena Del Gobbo Collaborates with Bulgari Jewels at the Vienna Philharmonic Ball

Living Opera collaborates in luxury photoshoot in Vienna ahead of their first album release All is Bright.

We’re passionate about working with visionary creators, platforms, and organizations that aim to redefine the future of arts, performance, and culture. It’s important to partner with clients whose goals and values align with ours. So, who is the ideal client for CM?

The size of the classical music sector might appear modest at first glance. Statista estimates the global classical music market, including ticket sales, recordings, and digital platforms, to be valued at approximately $281 million in 2018 in the United States and Europe combined.

The question for the classical music community is not “will it be relevant in the 21st century,” but rather “who will help carry the torch?”

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Artist

Norman Reinhardt

10 min read

Jun 28, 2025

Norman Reinhardt featured on Medici TV

Norman Reinhardt featured on Medici TV in Strauss’s Capriccio from Teatro Real Madrid in a landmark staging by Christof Loy.

Norman Reinhardt Featured on Medici TV in Strauss’s Capriccio from Teatro Real Madrid
A Sophisticated Turn in a Philosophical Comedy of Love and Art

Tonight, American tenor Norman Reinhardt appears in one of Richard Strauss’s most elegant and conceptually rich operas—Capriccio—streaming on Medici TV in a landmark production from Teatro Real Madrid. Directed by Christof Loy and conducted by Asher Fisch, this staging brings renewed clarity to Strauss’s final opera, a work that trades spectacle for subtlety and stakes for satire.

A Role Rooted in Artistry, Not Display

Reinhardt sings the role of Flamand, a composer locked in a genteel battle of wits and aesthetics with poet Olivier (Andrè Schuen), both vying for the affection of the Countess Madeleine. Though Capriccio may lack the overt drama of Strauss’s earlier works like Salome or Elektra, it demands considerable finesse from its performers—both vocally and dramatically. As Flamand, Reinhardt delivers Strauss’s conversational lyricism with clarity and conviction, shaping musical phrases that are at once tender and intellectually alive.

The role places him in the center of an opera that is less a story than a dialogue—between characters, and between art forms. Flamand’s music, particularly his setting of Olivier’s sonnet, becomes a vehicle for exploring whether music or poetry more fully captures the essence of human feeling.

Capriccio: Music, Words, and the Artist’s Dilemma

Premiered in 1942, Capriccio is a metatheatrical opera that stages an 18th-century debate about artistic primacy: should opera privilege words or music? But beneath the polished surface of this “conversation piece,” as Strauss and librettist Clemens Krauss described it, lies a meditation on artistic responsibility, the nature of creation, and the impossibility of separating beauty from subjectivity.

Set in a château outside Paris during the Enlightenment, the opera’s refined setting mirrors its refined concerns. Under Loy’s direction, the production emphasizes the stylized, almost mannerist qualities of the piece, while allowing moments of genuine feeling to emerge—particularly in the complex emotional landscape surrounding the Countess’s choice (or refusal to choose) between her two suitors.

A Career Defined by Range and Intelligence

For Reinhardt, this role continues a pattern of high-caliber engagements that emphasize his versatility. Known for his performances in Mozart, Strauss, and 20th-century repertoire, Reinhardt brings an unusually clear diction and thoughtful phrasing to roles that often require more than vocal power. As Flamand, he strikes the balance between artistic passion and courtly restraint—a challenge not only of singing but of characterization.

A Global Stage for a Chamber Opera

With Teatro Real’s production reaching audiences worldwide via Medici TV, this Capriccio offers viewers a rare opportunity to encounter Strauss’s most intimate opera in a richly realized staging. It also places Reinhardt before an international audience in a role that demands—and rewards—artistic nuance.

Artist

Max Potter

10 min read

Jun 24, 2025

Max Potter Steps into a New Chapter with Santuzza

This fall, mezzo-soprano Max Potter makes her role debut as Santuzza in Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana with Opera Santa Barbara.

Max Potter Steps into a New Chapter with Santuzza

This fall, mezzo-soprano Max Potter makes her role debut as Santuzza in Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana with Opera Santa Barbara. The engagement marks a new milestone in Potter’s trajectory as she embraces the emotionally rich and vocally demanding world of dramatic Italian repertoire.

A Breakout Year of Range and Risk

Potter’s 2024-2025 season has showcased her artistic range and interpretive agility. She opened the year with a scene-stealing performance as Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro, also with Opera Santa Barbara, bringing freshness and nuance to the Mozartian classic. Shortly after, she debuted in Verdi’s Requiem with the San Luis Obispo Master Chorale, where her performance was praised for its vocal authority and emotional presence. With Santuzza, Potter now turns to a role that requires both physical stamina and unflinching dramatic intensity.

Why Cavalleria Rusticana Still Matters

Premiered in 1890, Cavalleria Rusticana is a cornerstone of the verismo tradition—a genre of Italian opera focused on real-life emotion, often set among the working class. At just one act, the opera condenses themes of betrayal, passion, and retribution into a taut narrative, set in a Sicilian village on Easter morning. Santuzza—a woman betrayed by her lover and condemned by her community—is at the emotional center of the work.

The Role of Santuzza: Power, Pain, and Presence

Portraying Santuzza is not simply about vocal heft. The role requires a singer who can inhabit psychological complexity and sustain dramatic intensity across the opera’s short but explosive arc. For a mezzo-soprano like Potter, known for her vocal warmth and grounded stage presence, Santuzza offers an ideal outlet to explore new dramatic territory without compromising vocal integrity.

A Defining Moment with Opera Santa Barbara

Opera Santa Barbara’s production gives Potter a platform to deepen her collaboration with a company that has already played a formative role in her recent growth. With a creative team committed to nuance and clarity, the production promises to foreground the raw emotional stakes that make Cavalleria Rusticana endure with audiences across generations.

Looking Ahead

With this role debut, Max Potter continues to expand her artistic profile in meaningful and deliberate ways. Whether in Mozart, Verdi, or Mascagni, she brings a distinctive combination of vocal richness and interpretive thoughtfulness that positions her as an artist with staying power—and an evolving story still very much in motion.

Artist

Maddalena del Gobbo

10 min read

Jun 18, 2025

Maddalena Del Gobbo to present new album "Maddalena in Wonderland"

The new release by Supreme Classics infuses contemporary storytelling with historically informed performances by Maddalena and special guests.

On June 23, acclaimed cellist Maddalena Del Gobbo will present her latest album, Maddalena in Wonderland, at the Italian Embassy in Vienna. Released by Supreme Classics, the album reimagines the relationship between historical performance and contemporary storytelling, inviting listeners into a richly textured sonic landscape. The evening will include remarks from the artist, live excerpts from the album, and a reception in the embassy’s historic salons. Presented in partnership with Supreme Classics, the event is expected to draw a distinguished audience from the worlds of diplomacy, the arts, and cultural leadership.

About the Album
Del Gobbo’s creative work consistently pushes against conventional boundaries of genre and presentation. Maddalena in Wonderland continues that trajectory, offering a program that merges baroque repertoire with personal narrative, cinematic pacing, and a sense of theatrical wonder. The album reflects her commitment to historically informed performance—but filtered through a modern lens that values experimentation and emotional immediacy.

A Cultural Context
The Italian Embassy in Vienna, long a site for fostering international dialogue through the arts, provides a fitting backdrop for this launch. In recent years, the embassy has supported artists working at the intersection of heritage and innovation—a context in which Del Gobbo’s work resonates strongly. As cultural diplomacy increasingly involves interdisciplinary and experiential formats, events like this serve not only as artistic showcases but as platforms for conversation between sectors—artistic, diplomatic, and institutional.

Bridging Disciplines, Expanding Horizons
Maddalena Del Gobbo’s latest project reflects a vision that aligns closely with our work at CM Culture: honoring tradition while challenging its boundaries. Maddalena in Wonderland brings baroque performance into dialogue with narrative, imagination, and visual aesthetics—demonstrating how classical music can be experienced not only as repertoire, but as environment and story.

As with all the projects we support, this launch is more than a singular event. It marks the start of a broader conversation about how classical artists today can shape the future of the art form—on their own terms, and in spaces that invite cross-cultural and cross-sector engagement. We look forward to seeing how this work evolves in the months ahead.

Artist

Soula Parassidis

10 min read

Jun 15, 2025

Soula Parassidis Dressed by Daphne Valente for Sappho‑Inspired Shoot

Soula Parassidis joined forces with leading Greek artists to produce the first visual material for Muse of the Golden Throne, a new multidisciplinary project developed by Living Opera.

Soula Parassidis Collaborates with Daphne Valente for Sappho-Inspired Shoot

This week in Athens, soprano Soula Parassidis joined forces with leading Greek artists to produce the first visual material for Muse of the Golden Throne, a new multidisciplinary project developed by Living Opera in collaboration with partners in Athens, Los Angeles, Vienna, and Washington, D.C. The images mark the launch of a broader initiative that will unfold through live performances and installations—bridging music, history, technology, and visual design.

A Contemporary Frame for Ancient Texts

At the heart of Muse of the Golden Throne is a one-hour song cycle for voice and orchestra, composed around the surviving lyric fragments of the ancient poet Sappho and sung in English. Designed to be flexible in presentation, the work will be performed both with full orchestra and in more intimate concert settings with piano reduction.

A Visual Introduction, Not a Standalone Gesture

The visual campaign reunited Parassidis with two collaborators. Daphne Valente—known for her sculptural designs grounded in classical aesthetics—previously dressed Soula for Behind the Curtain, Living Opera’s podcast series filmed during Parassidis’s debut at the Greek National Opera. Photographer Kosmas Koumianos, widely published in Elle, Madame Figaro, and other international outlets, last worked with Parassidis in 2023 for a Maria Callas centennial shoot in collaboration with Vassilis Zoulias.

Three Components, One Initiative

Muse of the Golden Throne will take shape across three core formats:

  • A studio recording of the full song cycle for voice and orchestra
  • A live recital program, featuring the complete cycle or curated selections, with optional academic or cultural discussions
  • An immersive experience, designed to be presented either in conjunction with live performance or as a standalone installation

Each format will adapt to the venue and audience, allowing the project to move fluidly between traditional and nontraditional spaces.

What Comes Next

CM Culture Management is supporting the international rollout of this Living Opera initiative, with presentations already in development in Washington, D.C., Vienna, Paris, and Athens. Muse of the Golden Throne is part of Living Opera’s ongoing mission to expand the reach of classical music through interdisciplinary work. For Parassidis, it marks the next step in her evolution as an artist who is not only vocally accomplished but also actively shaping the future of the art form. More details to be announced in the coming months.

Artist

Norman Reinhardt

10 min read

Apr 28, 2025

Norman Reinhardt sings the Verdi Requiem

Norman Reinhardt returns to his roots for a special presentation of Verdi's masterpiece.

Norman Reinhardt Sings the Verdi Requiem

A Return to His Roots

This season, tenor Norman Reinhardt returned to a place of deep personal significance: the University of Kentucky, his alma mater, to perform Giuseppe Verdi’s Messa da Requiem. The performance marked not only a homecoming but also a reaffirmation of Reinhardt’s stature as a tenor capable of navigating the vocal demands of Verdi’s monumental work.

A Requiem of Experience and Command

This was Reinhardt’s fourth time performing the Verdi Requiem, and his experience with the piece was evident in every phrase. His delivery combined vocal strength with emotional nuance, bringing clarity and intensity to the tenor’s key moments—especially the haunting Ingemisco and the soaring Hostias. For audiences and students alike, his presence on stage served as both an artistic benchmark and a full-circle moment for the institution that helped launch his international career.

A Shift Toward Dramatic Repertoire

The performance also comes at a moment of vocal transition for Reinhardt. Known for his lyricism and agility in Mozart, bel canto, and early Romantic roles, he is now expanding into more dramatic territory. Upcoming engagements include roles in Puccini’s Tosca, Wagner’s Lohengrin and Der fliegende Holländer (as Erik), and Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly. These additions mark a natural evolution in Reinhardt’s vocal profile, as his voice matures into repertoire that demands both vocal heft and expressive depth.

Looking Ahead

With a growing command of the dramatic tenor repertoire and a grounded musicality shaped by years of experience, Reinhardt is entering an exciting new phase of his career. CM Culture Management is proud to support this trajectory and looks forward to sharing news of his upcoming performances on major international stages.

Installation

Ghost Ship

10 min read

Mar 25, 2025

Ghost Ship and the Power of Place: Turning Water into Memory

Ghost Ship is a luminous, large-scale installation that reimagines public space through art, storytelling, and technology.

In an era of remote work and reduced travel costs, cities compete on not only infrastructure, but also identity and vibrancy, making the role of public art in placemaking more than critical. At its best, placemaking weaves together culture, history, and innovation into a shared experience that fosters civic pride, attracts tourism, and reinvigorates underutilized spaces. 

We are excited to have the Ghost Ship featured by the Bright Brothers Strategy Group, a consultancy that works with cities, districts and DMOs on strategic planning, marketing, and placemaking. Created in 2014 by Mihai Baba and Daiana Folea of Biangle Studio, Ghost Ship is a luminous apparition—a sailing vessel that appears to float above the water, shimmering in the night air. First exhibited at the Amsterdam Light Festival, the installation has since traveled globally, mesmerizing audiences in Berlin, Liverpool, Singapore, Philadelphia, and beyond. 

But Ghost Ship is more than a technical feat; it is a case study in how large-scale immersive installations can transform a space and catalyze a deeper sense of place.

What distinguishes Ghost Ship is not just its visual allure, but its capacity to serve as a tool for community storytelling and engagement. Measuring nearly 20 meters high and created from intersecting light planes projected onto pressurized water spray, it harnesses cutting-edge technology to evoke centuries-old maritime legacies. Its very presence over a body of water invites reflection—on trade, migration, exploration, and the deep cultural relationships that communities have with their waterfronts.

This is what makes Ghost Ship ideal for public-facing activations: it is art that resonates with place. Maritime museums, riverfront districts, and urban renewal projects have all used the installation not merely as an attraction, but as a vehicle for identity-building. In Philadelphia, for instance, the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission deployed Ghost Ship as part of its Waterfront Arts Program. The result was more than earned media and social buzz—it was a reawakening of civic memory through a hauntingly beautiful spectacle.

Seth Kaplan, in Fragile Neighborhoods, argues that repairing the fabric of American society requires reinvesting in the physical and social infrastructure of local communities, strengthening the bonds of trust, identity, and belonging that make neighborhoods resilient. Ghost Ship contributes to this kind of repair by creating moments of shared wonder that bring people together across lines of age, background, and belief. These installations don’t just beautify a place—they activate it, turning anonymous public spaces into sites of collective memory and emotional connection. In this way, experiential art can serve as soft infrastructure for social cohesion, aligning closely with Kaplan’s vision for restoring the human scale to civic life.

Cities and organizations can offset the cost of public arts investments with a mix of private sponsorships, in-kind contributions, and tourism-generated revenue. More importantly, installations of this kind offer more than short-term returns. They generate reputational capital, contributing to a district’s narrative as a destination for creativity, innovation, and culture.

We are excited about the progress to date with the Ghost Ship, the inclusion of it by Bright Brothers Strategy Group, and look forward to the communities that the installation will be able to touch in the years ahead, helping build community and shared experiences.

Artist

Soula Parassidis

10 min read

Mar 23, 2025

Soula Parassidis makes debut in Verona

Greek-Canadian soprano debuts as Chrysothemis alongside Lise Lindstrom in the title role of Elektra.

Soula Parassidis Debuts in Verona in Richard Strauss’s Elektra

CM Culture Management is proud to announce the Verona debut of Greek-Canadian soprano Soula Parassidis in Richard Strauss’s Elektra, performing the pivotal role of Chrysothemis alongside internationally renowned soprano Lise Lindstrom in the title role. This production marks an important milestone in Parassidis’s career and a bold entry into the intense psychological landscape of Strauss’s late Romantic repertoire.

A Visceral Vision of Family Tragedy

Staged at the Teatro Filarmonico at the Arena di Verona, the production is a coalescence of musical and theatrical intensity, with director Yamaal das Irmich presenting Elektra as a visceral family tragedy set against the ruinous aftermath of intergenerational trauma. In this emotionally fraught setting, Parassidis’s Chrysothemis offered a striking foil to Lindstrom’s tormented Elektra—a younger sister clinging to dreams of escape and normalcy, even as she’s pulled deeper into a familial cycle of vengeance.

A Voice of Strength and Vulnerability

Vocally, Parassidis navigated Strauss’s demanding score with precision and lyricism, bringing a warm, youthful brightness to the role without sacrificing dramatic weight. Her interpretation of Chrysothemis was neither naïve nor complacent; instead, she portrayed a woman aware of her limits but not yet broken by them. Critics and audiences alike noted the rare blend of vulnerability and vocal authority she brought to the part—a compelling reminder that Chrysothemis is not simply Elektra’s foil, but a tragic figure in her own right.

A Crossroads in an International Career

This appearance in Verona builds on a year of artistic evolution for Parassidis, whose recent debuts at the Greek National Opera and the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence signal her arrival on some of the world’s most important operatic stages. Singing in Verona marks the realization of a lifelong dream for Parassidis, who has long admired the depth and tradition of Italian opera. Though raised in Canada, she has deep roots in Greece, and performing in Italy—the historical heart of opera—connects her dual heritage with the broader European tradition in which she has flourished.

Recasting Chrysothemis as Dramatic Center

The role of Chrysothemis is often underappreciated compared to Elektra’s explosive arc, but it demands technical finesse, dramatic timing, and sustained vocal power. In Parassidis’s hands, the role became a central thread of the opera’s emotional tapestry. Her duets with Lindstrom were among the production’s high points, with their vocal blend revealing both the unity and distance between the two sisters. Conductor Michael Balke drew out lush, restless textures from the orchestra, providing a rich sonic palette that Parassidis met with poise and full-bodied phrasing.

Looking Ahead

Parassidis’s appearance in Verona also reflects a strategic turning point in her career, as she takes on increasingly prominent roles within the German and late romantic repertoire. With a voice that combines dramatic weight and lyrical clarity, and a stage presence that balances classical authority with irresistible stage presence, she is quickly emerging as an artist who can not only interpret canonical works but imbue them with contemporary resonance.

A Defining Step Forward

At CM Culture Management, we are thrilled to support Parassidis in this next chapter. Her Chrysothemis is not just a debut—it is a declaration: of range, of maturity, and of the kind of artistry that deepens with each new stage.

Artist

Maddalena del Gobbo

10 min read

Jan 28, 2025

Maddalena Del Gobbo Collaborates with Bulgari Jewels at the Vienna Philharmonic Ball

Iconic Partnerships: Maddalena Del Gobbo Collaborates with Bulgari Jewels at the Vienna Philharmonic Ball

The Cultural Event of the Season

The Vienna Philharmonic Ball, held annually at the Musikverein in Vienna, is one of Europe’s most elegant cultural events. We’re thrilled for CM artist Maddalena Del Gobbo, renowned cellist and Deutsche Grammophon recording artist. Adorned in iconic Bulgari jewels and an elegant Lena Hoschek gown, Maddalena embodied a perfect fusion of artistry and timeless glamour at this year's event.

A Tradition of Excellence

Since 1924, the Vienna Philharmonic Ball has celebrated Vienna’s rich musical heritage. Set in the historic Golden Hall, the event features grand traditions like the opening procession and Viennese waltzes, showcasing Austria’s cultural identity to an international audience.

Bulgari: A Legacy of Elegance

Founded in 1884, Bulgari is an enduring symbol of Italian craftsmanship and sophistication. Known for bold designs and vibrant gemstones, the brand’s creations have graced icons across generations. Maddalena’s collaboration with Bulgari highlighted the shared values of excellence, creativity, and heritage.

Maddalena Del Gobbo: Timeless Artistry

A gifted artist celebrated for her sensitivity and precision, Maddalena Del Gobbo is a performer whose work bridges the traditional and the contemporary. Her presence at the Vienna Philharmonic Ball captured the essence of her artistry—a harmonious blend of elegance and innovation—perfectly complemented by Bulgari’s iconic designs.

CM Culture Management: Supporting Artists’ Visions

At CM Culture Management, we are dedicated to empowering artists to collaborate with brands that reflect their unique values and artistic vision. Maddalena’s partnership with Bulgari exemplifies the kind of meaningful opportunities that elevate both the artist and the art.

Living Opera

10 min read

Jan 23, 2025

Living Opera Collaborates with Bristol Hotel in Vienna

Living Opera collaborates in luxury photoshoot in Vienna ahead of their first album release All is Bright.

As Living Opera reflects on the success of their recent album, All Is Bright, we are excited to share our collaboration with the iconic Bristol Vienna. This partnership went beyond providing a stunning backdrop for the album’s photoshoot; it brought together two brands united by their dedication to artistry, culture, and innovation.

A Photoshoot in Grandeur

The Bristol Vienna, with its opulent architecture and timeless elegance, was the ideal setting for All Is Bright. From shimmering chandeliers to sophisticated suites, the hotel’s spaces perfectly complemented the album’s themes of beauty and hope. The management team at the Bristol ensured the shoot highlighted the synergy between the hotel’s grandeur and the music’s timeless resonance, creating an unforgettable visual narrative.

Behind the Curtain: A Shared Vision

This collaboration extended to Living Opera’s podcast series, Behind the Curtain. Supported by the Bristol’s management, the podcast explores the classical music world’s untold stories and triumphs. The Bristol’s history of hosting celebrated artists makes it a natural partner for a series that inspires thoughtful dialogue and demystifies the industry for emerging talents.

A Shared Commitment to Excellence

Living Opera and the Bristol Vienna share a respect for tradition and a drive for innovation. Just as the Bristol merges historic charm with modern luxury, Living Opera bridges classical artistry with contemporary storytelling, creating collaborations that elevate both brands.

Looking Ahead

With the release of All Is Bright and the continued success of Behind the Curtain, the partnership between Living Opera and the Bristol Vienna highlights the power of collaboration in inspiring and connecting people through art and culture. If you’re in Vienna, don’t miss experiencing the timeless elegance of the Bristol—a place where history and creativity shine.

10 min read

Jan 16, 2025

Who Is Our Ideal Client?

We’re passionate about working with visionary creators, platforms, and organizations that aim to redefine the future of arts, performance, and culture. It’s important to partner with clients whose goals and values align with ours. So, who is the ideal client for CM?

Who Is the Ideal Client for CM Culture Management?

At CM Culture Management, we’re passionate about working with visionary creators, platforms, and organizations that aim to redefine the future of arts, performance, and culture. To maintain the integrity of our mission and provide the best possible service, it’s important to partner with clients whose goals and values align with ours.

So, who is the ideal client for CM?

1. Visionaries with Big Ideas

Our clients are not just looking to maintain the status quo—they want to innovate, disrupt, and create something new. Whether it’s launching a groundbreaking multimedia project, designing a forward-thinking strategy for a cultural organization, or developing a new platform, we thrive on ambitious ideas.

2. Commitment to Excellence

We work best with individuals and organizations that value high-quality execution and have the resources, patience, and focus to see a project through. Excellence isn’t optional; it’s the foundation of our work together.

3. Open to Collaboration

Partnership is key to everything we do. Our clients trust us as strategic and creative collaborators, bringing their ideas to life through innovative solutions while respecting their vision and input.

4. A Long-Term Mindset

Whether it’s a multimedia project or a strategic consulting engagement, our ideal clients understand the importance of building for the future. They are ready to invest in thoughtful, sustainable solutions that deliver lasting impact.

5. Aligned with Our Mission

CM Culture Management is focused on shaping the future of arts and culture by blending tradition with innovation. If your goals align with this vision, we’d love to hear from you.

6. For Artists: A Vision Beyond Talent

At CM Culture Management, we look for artists who not only demonstrate exceptional talent but also bring a clear vision for their career and a professional, collaborative mindset. Working with us is a partnership, and we value clients who recognize the importance of investing in the expertise, time, and resources needed to achieve extraordinary results. Ideal clients understand that building a sustainable and impactful career requires mutual commitment and a shared dedication to excellence.

Is CM the Right Partner for You?

If you’re a creator, platform, or organization looking to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to reach out. However, if your needs don’t align with our expertise, we encourage you to explore other options to find the right fit. Our goal is to work with clients where we can deliver the most value and create something extraordinary together.

Living Opera

10 min read

Jan 2, 2025

Thinking Outside the Box – Defining the Market for Art and Culture

The size of the classical music sector might appear modest at first glance. Statista estimates the global classical music market, including ticket sales, recordings, and digital platforms, to be valued at approximately $281 million in 2018 in the United States and Europe combined.

The size of the classical music sector might appear modest at first glance. Statista estimates the global classical music market, including ticket sales, recordings, and digital platforms, to be valued at approximately $281 million in 2018 in the United States and Europe combined.

But to limit our understanding of the market for art and culture to traditional definitions like these is to overlook a vast and evolving landscape of what is possible.

Art and culture extend far beyond the concert halls and opera theaters. In fact, much of the classical community grew out of house concerts in the United States and Europe! By redefining our potential misconceptions of what classical music looks like, we uncover a much larger and more dynamic ecosystem—one that positions artists as central players not only in entertainment, but also in education, community building, and even corporate innovation.

The global art and entertainment industry is much bigger. PwC forecasted that the Media and Entertainment industry is expected to grow to $3.4 trillion by 2028, encompassing everything from film and streaming to live events and experiential platforms. Visual arts, theater, and immersive experiences are increasingly blurring the lines between traditional and new media. By considering classical music as part of this larger creative economy, we begin to see its potential to resonate with wider audiences and contribute to diverse industries.

For example, collaborations between classical musicians and digital platforms have led to exciting innovations, such as live-streamed concerts, virtual reality (VR) performances, and algorithm-curated playlists on Spotify and Apple Music. These formats not only expand access to classical music, but also integrate it into broader consumer habits. (For a future post: streaming platforms provide very little remuneration for artists, so they are not sustainable.)

Through our work with Living Opera, we have explained how artists can step beyond traditional venues to redefine their roles. In education, musicians are becoming advocates for interdisciplinary learning, bringing creativity into STEM fields to foster problem-solving and innovation. Community engagement programs leverage the power of music and art to address social issues, from mental health initiatives to urban revitalization projects.

Consider how orchestras now partner with corporations to provide immersive experiences for employees or how art installations appear in unexpected places like airports and hospitals.

This expanded view of the market for art and culture also repositions the artist. No longer confined to roles as performers, creators, or curators, today’s artists are entrepreneurs, digital innovators, and thought leaders. Agencies like ours aim to empower this evolution, connecting artists with nontraditional opportunities that align with their talents and aspirations. (And my research has also shown that artists who acquire some entrepreneurial training are able to command higher wages in the labor market.)

In a world where creativity is increasingly valued across all sectors, the market for art and culture is defined not just by traditional ticket sales or box office revenues but by its capacity to inspire, educate, and innovate. By thinking outside the box, we can redefine what it means to be an artist and explore the boundless opportunities within this ever-expanding market.

10 min read

Jan 1, 2025

A New Vision for Arts and Culture Management

The question for the classical music community is not “will it be relevant in the 21st century,” but rather “who will help carry the torch?”

The question for the classical music community is not “will it be relevant in the 21st century?”, but rather, “who will help carry the torch?” Classical music endures because it has withstood the test of time, inspiring people across generations and establishing a standard for artistic excellence. This era is no different in its potential; what has changed are the economic, social, and political circumstances that shape our reality.

Unfortunately, the current trajectory of the sector is unsustainable. The classical music industry is facing systemic challenges that threaten its long-term viability. My research has revealed that the income gap between artists and non-artists – even after accounting for differences in age, education, race, and other factors – has widened significantly. Between 2006 and 2021, this gap grew from -15% to -30%. Furthermore, the economic return on earning an arts degree has become, on average, negative; most arts graduates never recoup their educational investment. Compounding these challenges, my research also finds that opera companies are grappling with financial instability. Their net operating incomes have stagnated or declined, while the cities they serve are experiencing significant population shifts that impact their audience base.

These empirical findings, drawn from U.S. data, carry a cautionary message for European artists and arts institutions as well. The global interconnectedness of the arts means that these trends could have far-reaching implications beyond national borders.

The pressing question is: What do we do differently?

At CM Culture Management, our philosophy is straightforward: Artists must thrive. Thriving means more than artistic fulfillment; it’s about holistic success. If artists are not actively engaged and able to showcase their talents, they are not thriving. If they cannot financially sustain their careers, they are not thriving. While these statements may seem self-evident, they highlight glaring gaps in the current system.

We believe in expanding the possibilities for artists and the institutions that support them. The pie can get bigger. Our unique network and capabilities empower us to think beyond conventional, zero-sum strategies. Instead, we focus on innovative solutions that prioritize long-term growth and sustainability for the entire classical music ecosystem.

The future of classical music will be shaped by those who dare to think boldly, act decisively, and prioritize the well-being of the artists at its heart. By doing so, we ensure that this timeless art form continues to inspire and resonate for generations to come. Welcome to CM.

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At CM Culture Management, we are not just responding to the changes in the creative world—we are actively shaping them.

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