International Academic Conference
Worldwide stage for education. Are you looking for contact with international Handel specialists? The International Scientific Conference attracts scholars and speakers from all over the world. Inspired by the annual Handel Festival, a musicological aspect is the focus of the lectures, discussions and round tables.
International Academic Conference 2026: Constructions of Masculinity in Handel’s Operas and Oratorios / Marking the 200th Anniversary of Friedrich Chrysander’s Birth – Significance and Legacy
Keynote Lecture: 6 June 2026 // Conference: 8 to 9 June 2026
This year’s conference will address two themes of particular significance for the Handel Year 2026. The first is the theme of constructions of masculinity in Handel’s operas and oratorios, as suggested by the motto of the Handel Festival, "Masculinities: Heroes, Rulers, Heartbreakers" – a subject that is particularly multifaceted in this composer’s work: ‘The stereotypical strong man offers little dramatic appeal – Handel and his librettists were well aware of this. Their male characters are complex, full of inner conflict, fragility and tension’ (Florian Amort).
Furthermore, 2026 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Friedrich Chrysander (1826–1901), providing an opportunity to reflect once again on the significance and legacy of this most important Handel scholar of the 19th century.
You can find the preview flyer with the conference programme here: