Archive · 12 Sep 2025
Berlin Steps In After Festival Cancels Israeli Conductor Lahav Shani
A Belgian festival canceled a performance by Israeli conductor Lahav Shani because of the conflict in Gaza.
This led to a lot of debate.
The festival said they weren't sure about his views because of his job.
Germany was not happy with the decision, as they want to support Israel.
So, the Konzerthaus in Berlin quickly arranged a concert with Shani and his orchestra.
The concert will include pieces by Beethoven and Wagner.
The festival's decision caused criticism from German and Belgian politicians.
A Belgian festival rescinded its invitation to Israeli conductor Lahav Shani due to the Gaza conflict.
Germany condemned the festival's decision, citing its special obligation to Israel.
Berlin's Konzerthaus intervened to host Shani's performance at short notice.
Shani will conduct the Munich Philharmonic in a concert featuring Beethoven and Wagner.
The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
- Who
- Israeli conductor Lahav Shani and the Munich Philharmonic.
- What
- Berlin's Konzerthaus will host a performance after a Belgian festival canceled Shani's invitation.
- When
- Monday
- Where
- Berlin, Germany.
- Why
- Due to the Gaza conflict and Shani's role as Chief Conductor of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
- Conductor
- Lahav Shani
- Original Event Location
- Ghent, Belgium
- New Event Location
- Berlin, Germany
- Orchestra
- Munich Philharmonic
- Performance Date
- Monday