Iván Fischer made his dream come true in 1983 when, together with Zoltán Kocsis, he founded the Budapest Festival Orchestra (BFO). From the very beginning, the ensemble’s ambition has been to share music of the highest quality and to serve its audiences in the most diverse ways.

The BFO’s innovative events, such as the Surprise Concerts, autism-friendly Cocoa Concerts and musical marathons, are well-known around the world. The Midnight Music concerts attract young adults, while the Dancing on the Square project integrates disadvantaged children. The orchestra also promotes free Community Weeks and co-produces the Bridging Europe festival with Müpa Budapest.

The BFO’s residency at the 2023 International Festival is part of our Community over chaos theme, reflective of the values and aims of the orchestra. The orchestra is committed to serving its community within Budapest and providing Hungary with an orchestra of international standing.