The young German-Romanian Baritone Konstantin Krimmel will make his first appearance at the Salzburg Easter Festival in 2026. Under the baton of Daniel Harding, who made his debut with the Berliner Philharmoniker at the age of just 21, he will perform Joseph Haydn’s monumental work »Die Schöpfung« together with Soprano Hanna-Elisabeth Müller, Tenor Andrew Staples, and the Bavarian Radio Chorus. Learn more about the artist in this interview.
Haydn’s oratorio »Die Schöpfung« is considered one of the great masterpieces of music history. What fascinates you most about this work, and what do you think gives it its timeless appeal?
Konstantin Krimmel: What I find fascinating is the musical portrayal of the biblical story of creation. That’s also why it’s timeless — because this story endures and is continually retold. It is also timeless due to its magnificent musical realization and the many metaphors in the story that could just as easily come from today.
Is there a passage that personally moves you the most or in which you feel particularly at home as a singer?
Konstantin Krimmel: Actually, all the recitatives — they are so brilliantly crafted. Even the first line, »In the beginning God created (…)«—there the story can be told, and I have great freedom in shaping the words.
In 2026, you will make your debut at the Salzburg Easter Festival. What significance does this appearance hold for you, both artistically and personally?
Konstantin Krimmel: Salzburg itself is, of course, something very special. Being allowed to sing here is like being knighted. And on top of that, it’s practically around the corner from Munich. You save the long journey and yet find yourself in a completely different world. There is magic in Salzburg.
The oratorio will be performed under the musical direction of Daniel Harding. Have you worked with him before, and what are you looking forward to in this collaboration?
Konstantin Krimmel: I haven’t worked with Daniel Harding before, so I am all the more excited to experience him »at work«. He is a magnificent musician, especially for this repertoire. Large oratorios with many recitatives are very difficult to conduct. I’m really looking forward to it.
This will be the first time you perform with the Berliner Philharmoniker. What expectations and sense of anticipation do you associate with this encounter?
Konstantin Krimmel: Making music with the Berliner Philharmoniker is simply wonderful — such a splendid and unique orchestra. I’m very much looking forward to it. Performing a work like this is teamwork; every single person matters. Becoming part of the history of this incredible orchestra is a great honor for me.
How does your approach to an oratorio role like in »Die Schöpfung« differ from that of an operatic role?
Konstantin Krimmel: In fact, not all that much — especially with such large oratorios. They require the same vocal components. There are major arias and recitatives. Everything from soft to loud must be expressed dynamically. And it tells a real story that wants to be communicated — quite similar to opera.
What inspires you in life beyond music? Where do you draw creativity and strength from?
Konstantin Krimmel: spend a lot of time in the mountains, both in summer and winter. That gives me new input for virtually everything: especially for Lieder, but also for oratorio and opera. The many images are a great help to creativity, and my two little dogs give me the greatest support.
You are still young and at the beginning of a remarkable career. What artistic goals or dream projects do you have for the coming years?
Konstantin Krimmel: That projects like this continue to be possible. I don’t have any special wishes. I am already doing everything that fulfills me and brings me joy. And that’s exactly how I hope it continues. Making music with these musicians—what more could I want?
