In this role, Alisa Meves will oversee the artistic planning of all BFO concerts in Hungary and internationally. She will lead the BFO team in organizing and executing all concert activities, both at home and abroad, including collaborations with the Iván Fischer Opera Company and the European Orchestra Academy. Alisa Meves will work closely with Music Director Iván Fischer and the BFO Board of Directors.

The Budapest Festival Orchestra has enjoyed remarkable success in recent years and is now widely regarded as one of the world’s finest symphony orchestras. Iván Fischer’s innovative and visionary leadership has given rise to new concert formats that have reached audiences across the globe, introducing especially young generations to the beauty of music.

Alisa Meves will focus on advancing Iván Fischer’s pathbreaking concepts, developing new ideas, and furthering the orchestra’s mission to bring music to as many people as possible – building peace, tolerance, and understanding through the power of music.

Biography of Alisa Meves

Born and raised in Germany, Alisa Meves is an arts professional with extensive experience in orchestral, operatic and ballet programming.

From 2023 to 2025, she served as Artistic Director of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, overseeing repertoire planning, guest artist engagements, and international touring.

She previously spent over 25 years at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, working closely with Valery Gergiev. As Head of Planning, she directed programming across opera, ballet and concert activities in all venues and major festivals, and later also led press, publicity and marketing.

Alisa Meves is recognized for her expertise in large-scale artistic planning and international collaboration.

Orsolya Erdődy continues as Managing Director of the BFO, with a renewed focus on strengthening the orchestra’s financial foundations and institutional partnerships. She will lead fundraising efforts and oversee government and municipal relations, working in close collaboration with the Board of Directors, supporters, and the international Circles of Friends to support the orchestra’s long-term development.

Iván Fischer says:

I am delighted to welcome Alisa to our family. Having worked with her in St Petersburg and Tel Aviv, I am convinced that she understands the essence of what the BFO is about and will represent this ensemble extremely well. We will work closely together and lead the BFO to new challenges which will serve music and music lovers all over the world.

Personal statement by Alisa Meves:

I am honored and thrilled to join the Budapest Festival Orchestra family! Iván Fischer’s vision knows no boundaries and continues to be a true inspiration. The orchestra’s excellence is recognized around the world, and I am very much looking forward to the journey ahead – exploring new horizons together while building on the BFO’s extraordinary legacy.”