Press release in response to the press conference held by Klangforum Wien on August 14, 2008

14 August 2008
“Montezuma – Falling Eagle” Cancelled

The opera “Montezuma – Falling Eagle” was commissioned by Linz09. Despite the cancellation of its planned world premiere in Linz during the European Capital of Culture year, Klangforum Wien announced at a press conference held on August 14, 2008 that it nevertheless intends to produce this work.

However, this would be legally permissible only with the consent of Linz09 due to the fact that the exclusive right to use the libretto as well as the musical score is the property of Linz09, and the right to produce the work is the property of LIVA Linzer Veranstaltungsges.m.b.H.

Linz09 had already announced in a press release dated June 28, 2008 that “Montezuma – Falling Eagle” would definitely not be produced. The reason for this decision was that LIVA was unable to reach an agreement with Klangforum Wien and, despite the considerable financial resources available, Linz09 is not in a position to finance the entire production.

In response to the Klangforum’s reference at today’s press conference to “existing contracts” with artists, we wish to point out that no such contracts exist between Linz09 and the artists with the exception of Bernhard Lang and Dr. Peter Leisch.