Masters of Classic (12–13 September 2026) returns to Bucharest: a grand celebration of opera
The “vocal extravaganza”, taking place from 12 to 13 September 2026 at Sala Palatului, marks the second edition of the Masters of Classic Festival and will bring together some of the world’s greatest opera stars, including Anna Netrebko, Jonas Kaufmann and José Carreras.
The Masters of Classic Festival will achieve what very few festivals in the world can: bringing together some of today’s most renowned classical vocal performers over two consecutive days. The exceptional artists featured in the Masters of Classic programme have appeared on the stages of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, festivals and concert halls, collaborating with the greatest conductors of their generations.
With an extraordinary career spanning more than half a century, including the founding of the legendary trio The Three Tenors, José Carreras needs no introduction. On 12 September, José Carreras will present a programme combining excerpts from musical theatre, Neapolitan and Spanish songs, and many other surprises. He will be joined by Eurovision finalist Lucie Jones, a celebrated West End performer, conductors David Giménez and Charley Prince, as well as the Camerata Regală.
For the closing evening on 13 September, the concert version of Aida by Giuseppe Verdi will feature a cast rarely encountered even on the world’s greatest opera stages. Soprano Anna Netrebko and tenor Jonas Kaufmann will perform the iconic roles of Aida and Radamès, joined by mezzo-soprano Yulia Matochkina (Amneris), baritone Luca Salsi (Amonasro) and bass Alexander Köpeczi (Ramfis). Conductor Riccardo Frizza will lead the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Hungarian Radio Choir and Hungarian National Choir — some of Hungary’s most prestigious orchestral and choral ensembles, making a rare appearance in Bucharest.
Performance Schedule
12 September, Saturday
José Carreras – tenor
Lucie Jones
David Giménez – conductor
Charles Prince – conductor
Camerata Regală
13 September, Sunday – Aida by Giuseppe Verdi (concert version)
Anna Netrebko – soprano (Aida)
Jonas Kaufmann – tenor (Radamès)
Yulia Matochkina – mezzo-soprano (Amneris)
Luca Salsi – baritone (Amonasro)
Alexander Köpeczi – bass (Ramfis)
Riccardo Frizza – conductor
Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra
Hungarian Radio Choir
Hungarian National Choir
Masters of Classic 2026 promises a unique experience dedicated to music lovers and to all those wishing to discover the emotion and grandeur of opera at the highest level. The festival is organised by renowned international event producer Marcel Avram and supported by Music for Life Foundation.
