I am pleased to welcome you to the

3rd International Music Festival Phnom Penh.

For centuries Vienna is known as the so called ”Capital of Classic Music”, where many of the renowned composers had lived and worked: Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Franz Schubert, Arnold Schoenberg, Alban Berg and Olga Neuwirth. In the year of 2006, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s works will be played worldwide in recognition his 250th anniversary, a main part of the festival program. One of the true rewards of music participation is the creation of friendships and the development of a person’s appreciation and understanding of others. Even though this particular means of musical expressions is a personal thing, it is yet something that must be shared with others. It is this sharing - the human element - that gives music purpose to the activity.

Gerhard Anton Isselhardt, Program Director F.W.C.P.A.

I would like to congratulate the Foundation for the Advancement of Western Classical Performing Arts in Cambodia (F.W.C.P.A.) on the very laudable initiative to organize the 3rd International Music Festival Phnom Penh. May this music festival contribute to make European Classical Music better known to the Khmer public and promote International dialogue and understanding.