Ernst Theis

Ernst Theis is a University Professor for Artistic Research at JAM MUSIC LAB Private University for Jazz and Popular Music Vienna, serving concurrently as Vice Rector for Research and Quality Assurance. He holds a PhD in Artistic Research from the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (2019) and has extensive leadership experience, including Head of Master Studies Music and former Head of the Department of Wind Instruments and Percussion at Konservatorium Wien Privatuniversität (2005-2008). His academic career spans teaching positions since 1981, including roles at the Conservatory of the City of Vienna and Music School Korneuburg.

His research focuses on historical music media, particularly radio music (1923-1934), and he has conducted groundbreaking work in reviving neglected operetta and ballet scores. Notable projects include recordings of Oscar Straus’ Die Prinzessin von Tragant and editions of Eduard Künneke’s works. He has guest-conducted major orchestras across Europe and Asia, including the Warsaw Philharmonic and Osaka Symphony Orchestra, emphasizing 20th-century repertoire and underperformed works.

• Education:
  • PhD in Artistic Research, University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (2019)
  • Magister artium, University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (1986)
  • IGP in Classical Percussion, University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (1984)

His awards include the 1996 Darmstadt Conducting Competition (chaired by Peter Eötvös) and the 1983 Federal Ministry for Education and the Arts Appreciation Award. Current projects include conducting the Bochum Symphony Orchestra in India and leading radio music research initiatives at the Gewandhaus Leipzig.

Ernst Theis serves as an artistic director for festivals like the KLANGBADHALL Festival (2017–2021) and Operettensommer Kufstein (2012–2017). His work bridges academic research, performance practice, and historical revival, with a focus on underrepresented musical genres and media history.