maestro Ughi Challenges Venezi‘s Appointment at La Fenice
Venice, Italy – October 9, 2025 – Veteran conductor Uto Ughi publicly questioned the recent selection of Beatrice Venezi as the new musical director of Teatro La Fenice, asserting she lacks the necessary experience and standing for the prestigious role.The statement, delivered today, has ignited debate within Italy’s classical music community.
The controversy centers on the appointment of Venezi, a rising star conductor, to one of opera’s most historically significant venues. Ughi’s criticism strikes at the heart of the decision, raising concerns about prioritizing visibility over established qualifications. The appointment, finalized October 9, 2025, will see Venezi assume the directorship beginning in the 2026 season, a move that Ughi believes diminishes the legacy of La Fenice. “Beatrice Venezi does not have the curriculum nor the stature to be the musical director of La Fenice,” Ughi stated.
La fenice, reopened in 2003 after a devastating fire in 1996, holds a central place in Italian musical history, having premiered works by Rossini, verdi, and Puccini. The position of musical director is traditionally held by conductors with decades of experience leading major international orchestras and opera houses. Venezi, while gaining recognition for her dynamic performances and audience engagement, has a comparatively shorter conducting career.
The La Fenice board has yet to respond to Ughi’s comments, but the debate is expected to intensify as Venezi prepares for her inaugural season. The selection process and the criteria used to appoint Venezi are now under increased scrutiny, potentially impacting future leadership decisions at the renowned opera house.
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