International Collaboration with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields
Bayer Arts and Culture's stARTacademy will begin an international partnership in 2027 with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields (ASMF) – one of the most renowned orchestras in Great Britain.
The collaboration promotes young talents and strengthens the orchestra's artistic connection to Germany, one of its most important tour destinations. The focus is on the development of young musicians. Selected stARTacademy artists rehearse intensively with the ASMF and will perform together with alumni such as Giorgi Gigashvili and Guido Sant’Anna at the stARTfestival in the future.
"Talent development is at the core of our social mission. With the stARTacademy, we are expanding this work internationally – through mentoring, collaboration, and a shared learning culture."
Anja Mittermüller launches program
Anja Mittermüller © Karpati & Zarewicz
The rising mezzo-soprano Anja Mittermüller will be the first to experience the unique approach of the new concept in May 2027 during intensive rehearsals with other renowned soloists, including stARTacademy alumni Giorgi Gigashvili and Guido Sant‘Anna.
The collaboration builds on the previous success of the stARTacademy and offers young artists a platform for growth and international visibility.
The ASMF actively supports the selection of future stARTacademy talents together with Christoph Böhmke from Bayer Arts and Culture. This also reflects the ASMF philosophy of long-term support – from BBC New Generation Artists to new fellowship programs, now in cooperation with Bayer Kultur.
"I am absolutely thrilled to be working with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields as a stARTacademy fellow – an orchestra I have admired for a long time."
Building on existing connections
The partnership builds on the orchestra's long-standing close connection with Germany. Over decades, the ASMF has established strong artistic ties and connections across Germany and built a large fan base. As part of the new collaboration, the orchestra will also present a special community concert featuring local amateur musicians. This makes the collaboration with Bayer Kultur a natural progression of the stARTacademy.
The collaboration emerged after a performance by the orchestra at the stARTfestival, when the two initiators discovered their shared philosophy of nurturing talent. Together, they aim to create long-term artistic perspectives.
About the Academy of St Martin in the Fields
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields © Richard Lea-Hair
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is one of the world’s finest orchestras, renowned for fresh, brilliant interpretations of the greatest orchestral works. Founded in 1958 by Sir Neville Marriner, it has grown into an international musical powerhouse – celebrated for the freedom of its musicians and captivating, inspiring performances.
Under Music Director Joshua Bell, their playful approach thrives, engaging every orchestra member. He creates direct, electrifying audience connections and collaborative concerts beyond traditional conductor structures. Beyond the concert hall, ASMF demonstrates social commitment through music projects aimed at supporting people. The orchestra has long worked with homeless communities and promotes the autonomy and creativity of young musicians worldwide.
Shared artistic responsibility leads to long-term collaborations with world stars – such as a 15-year partnership with Joshua Bell, embodying trust and sustainable cooperation. He is one of the world’s leading violinists and has been Music Director of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields since 2011. Building on its extensive international history, ASMF is one of the most recorded orchestras in the world and embodies a love for classical music through live concerts and digital formats. With an intensive international touring schedule and a strong presence in the United Kingdom, the orchestra is one of the country’s most prestigious cultural exports.
© Key Visual: Matthew Johnson (ASMF)