GMJO

Ulrike Sych appointed President of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester

© Inge Prader
© Inge Prader

Mag. Ulrike Sych, long-serving Rector of mdw – University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, has been appointed President of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester (GMJO). She was elected unanimously at the General Assembly of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester on 30 September 2026 and takes up the role with immediate effect. Ulrike Sych will work

closely with the board of directors and management on the further development of the GMJO.

Founded in Vienna by Claudio Abbado almost 40 years ago, the GMJO is widely regarded as the world’s leading international youth orchestra. It regularly performs with the foremost conductors and soloists of our time and is a fixture at the most prestigious festivals and concert venues. Many former members now hold positions in leading orchestras across Europe and around the world.


Mag. Ulrike Sych:

“It is a great honour to take on the presidency of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester. This orchestra epitomises artistic excellence, diversity in practice and the unifying power of music in Europe. Together, we aim to offer young musicians the very best conditions for artistic development, international collaboration and gain inspiring experience on stage.”


Alexander Meraviglia-Crivelli, Artistic and Executive Director of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester: “I am absolutely delighted that we have succeeded in appointing Ulrike Sych as the new President of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester: for many years now, there has been a highly successful partnership between the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna – which, thanks to Ulrike Sych, has risen to the top of international rankings – and the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester. 

It is therefore as gratifying as it is fitting that Ulrike Sych will now bring the commitment she has shown to exceptionally gifted students over so many years as Rector of mdw to her new role as President of the GMJO. Together, we stand for the dedicated support of outstanding talent from Austria and across Europe. The GMJO and its team are very much looking forward to working with Ulrike Sych!”