Spanish Guitar & Bach Toccata at Dorotheerkirche — (Reformed City Church)

About the Event

Immerse yourself in a magical evening of music that transcends time and borders at the 'Spanish Guitar & Bach Toccata at Dorotheerkirche — (Reformed City Church).

The concert series Spanish Guitar & Bach Toccata in Vienna explores the deep historical and musical connections between Spain and Vienna, shaped for centuries by the Habsburg dynasty.

Under the Habsburg Empire, Spain and Vienna were closely linked through shared rule, cultural exchange and a constant flow of artists, musicians, and ideas. This connection extended far beyond court traditions such as the Spanish Riding School, reaching into the musical life of the imperial capital. Spanish guitar music, with its expressive rhythms and colours, developed alongside the Viennese classical tradition, creating a fascinating dialogue between two rich musical worlds.

In this programme, the brilliance of Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi meets the passion of the Spanish guitar tradition, reflecting a broader European heritage in which styles, influences, and artistic languages continuously crossed borders within the Habsburg realm.

Alvaro Toscano is the winner of the First Prize and Audience Award at the 58th Francisco Tárrega International Guitar Competition, he is one of today’s most celebrated classical guitarists. A multiple prizewinner of major international competitions, he has also received numerous audience awards reflecting his strong artistic impact.

He has performed as soloist with leading orchestras including the Spanish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Swedish Chamber Orchestra, Royal Symphony Orchestra of Seville and many others. His international career spans hundreds of concerts across Europe, the Americas and Africa.

His acclaimed recording Crystal, awarded the Melómano de Oro, further confirms his status as a leading voice of the classical guitar.

The Dorotheerkirche (Reformierte Stadtkirche), located in the heart of Vienna, stands on the site of the former Dorothea monastery, reflecting a rich and layered history. After the reforms of Joseph II in the late 18th century, the building was granted to the Reformed (Calvinist) community, marking an important step toward religious tolerance in Austria. The church was redesigned in a refined classical style by notable architects of the period, giving it an elegant and harmonious interior. It quickly became a cultural and spiritual center for the Protestant community, known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong musical tradition. Today, the Reformierte Stadtkirche is admired not only for its historical significance but also for its architectural beauty and vibrant role in Vienna’s cultural life.