For the past 65 years, ACF has played a crucial role in cementing Anglo-Austrian cultural relations. Originally a welcome meeting place for émigrés and their friends, successive Directors, ably assisted by Hannelore Schmidt in the 1970s and then the incomparable Andrea Rauter and their colleagues, have made it a beacon of creativity and innovation on the London arts scene. Debut concert recitals, Festivals, contemporary music series, lectures, film shows, exhibitions all provided opportunities for friends of Austria to share in the warm welcoming environment that was 28 Rutland Gate.

I joined the Anglo-Austrian Music Society as Concert Manager in 1971, and I look back with pleasure and pride at so many joint events held not just in Rutland Gate but at Wigmore Hall, Leighton House, the V & A, South Bank and other venues.

In these difficult and challenging times for the arts, long may ACF carry on its vital role.

Jane Avery
Anglo-Austrian Music Society