At a Bastion of Classical Music, She’s Amplifying the Experimental

Caterina Barbieri, a 35-year-old experimental musician, has been appointed as the artistic director of the prestigious Venice Music Biennale, a bastion of classical music. Barbieri's work, which often features banks of synthesizers, represents a stark contrast to the traditional programming of the event. Despite her unconventional approach, Barbieri's selection signals a shift in the Biennale's focus, as it aims to embrace a more diverse range of musical styles and perspectives. Barbieri's appointment is seen as an attempt to broaden the event's appeal and attract a younger audience. As the new artistic director, Barbieri plans to curate a program that highlights the intersection of classical and experimental music, showcasing the work of innovative composers and performers. This move is intended to challenge the Biennale's traditional boundaries and introduce new creative possibilities to the prestigious festival. The article highlights Barbieri's unique background and her potential to reinvigorate the Biennale, offering a fresh perspective on the future of classical music and its evolution.