The Nova Orchester Wien (NOW!) was founded in the summer of 2020, embodying a unique blend of Vienna's rich musical heritage and the innovative impulses of the 21st century. Under the baton of three-time Solti Award-winning

Chief Conductor William Garfield Walker, NOW! marries classical tradition with modern vibrancy. The orchestra upholds the principles of discovery, diversity, and dialogue, celebrating giants like Mozart and Mahler while passionately embracing fresh, contemporary compositions.

NOW! is notable not only for its musical excellence but also for its commitment to diversity, with nearly 70% of its musicians being female and its members hailing from over 20 different countries. This commitment enriches its programs, which frequently include Austrian premieres of works by composers such as Florence Price, Jennifer Higdon, William Grant Still, and Lili Boulanger. These performances not only enrich Vienna's cultural landscape but also revitalize overlooked masterpieces and amplify underrepresented voices.
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”Moreover, because Walker hits the nerve precisely in the Adagio. This intensity must have been what Sergiu Celibidache once spoke of when he said that music is essentially nothing but tension and resolution. Therein also lies the secret of the Mahler sound. It follows a natural flow, which allows a certain leeway for interpretations, yet must always skate on a knife’s edge in the broad legato and glissando of the strings. As simple as that may sound, it is an art that only a few can master.”
— Klassilk begeistert

Through carefully curated programs, engaging storytelling, and high-quality musical experiences, NOW! makes waves in the classical music scene. It appeals to both long-standing concertgoers and non-traditional audiences alike. The orchestra's performances at venues such as the Wiener Musikverein and Wiener Konzerthaus, and events such as a digital concert for the G20 economic forum and a celebration for Austrian National Day, underscore its growing prominence. NOW! transcends its role as just an orchestra; it acts as a beacon for "humanity through music." Dedicated to innovation and inclusivity, NOW! extends its influence beyond the concert hall, fostering a dialogue that enlightens and entertains. This engagement promotes a colorful, cosmopolitan, accessible, and dynamic orchestral image that resonates both in Austria and internationally. Through this vibrant approach, NOW! connects a diverse audience through the universal language of music, creating valuable synergies and serving as a vibrant hub for open dialogue.

Liina Leijala