In June 2026, Schloss Blühnbach welcomed Larissa Friedrich and Xaver Grundner, students from the College of Forestry in Bruck an der Mur, who are carrying out a scientific study using the Foundation's historic collection of chamois antlers. By analysing specimens dating back to around 1900, their research will investigate how antler characteristics have changed over more than a century, contributing to a greater understanding of the Blühnbach Valley's wildlife heritage.

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On 30 May 2026, Schloss Blühnbach welcomed members of the Großglockner–Heiligenblut Ibex Conservation Association for an educational visit to the Blühnbach Valley. Led by Managing Director Markus Lackner, the group explored the castle and reflected on the shared values of conservation, stewardship, and the preservation of Austria’s natural and cultural heritage. Visitors expressed particular admiration for the castle’s remarkable state of preservation and historic collections.

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This spring, Blühnbach Castle became the setting for scenes from Die Toten von Salzburg, one of the German-speaking world’s most successful television crime series. Cast and crew spent several days filming the episode Jagdfieber within the castle and across the surrounding estate, bringing the historic interiors and dramatic Alpine landscape to the screen. Discover more about the production and view a selection of behind-the-scenes photographs from the shoot in the full article.

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On 28 March 2026, Schloss Blühnbach welcomed guests for a special chamber concert presented in collaboration with the International Mozarteum Foundation Salzburg. Against a striking Alpine backdrop, young musicians performed works by Mozart on historic instruments from the composer’s own collection, offering an intimate morning of music, heritage, and Easter traditions within the castle’s historic interiors. ​

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Schloss Blühnbach recently came alive for the Frederick R. Koch Foundation's Biennial Oktoberfest, a vibrant celebration of Austrian culture and community. Guests enjoyed authentic Bavarian music by "Duanix Musi," a traditional luncheon, and a crossbow competition supporting the local Heimatverein D’Blühnbachtaler. More than just a party, the event embodied the Foundation's mission to foster cultural appreciation and connection, successfully bringing local heritage and a global audience together in harmony.

On August 10th, the Frederick R. Koch Foundation of Austria hosted a chamber concert at Schloss Blühnbach with Mozarteum University alumni, highlighted by the rare sound of Mozart’s own violin. In partnership with the International Mozarteum Foundation, this unforgettable event embodied our mission to celebrate artistic excellence and bring history to life through music.

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In the heart of Austria’s Alps, the Frederick R. Koch Foundation of Austria welcomed internationally renowned countertenor Philippe Jaroussky to Schloss Blühnbach for an unforgettable summer masterclass. Bringing together gifted young vocalists from Vienna, Munich, and Salzburg, the day was a rare fusion of world-class artistry, mentorship, and inspiration. Within the castle’s historic walls, music and tradition met in a shared pursuit of excellence—leaving lasting impressions on students, guests, and the future of classical performance.

The FRK Foundation is delighted to welcome John Cahalane as its new Inventory Curator. With more than 30 years of experience in fine art collections and logistics, including senior leadership roles at Sotheby’s London, Cahalane brings deep expertise to the stewardship of the Foundation’s significant holdings. His appointment signals an exciting new chapter in the Foundation’s mission to preserve, digitise, and share its cultural legacy with the world.

The FRK Foundation is delighted to collaborate with the Gothic and Mining Museum Leogang on two cultural initiatives celebrating Alpine history and heritage—most notably the loan of our Renaissance painting Saint Daniel Instructs Miners and a historic ibex trophy for their 2025 exhibition on carved ibex horn art.

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This intimate gathering brought together an esteemed group of curators, museum leaders, and cultural figures for a shared afternoon of discovery, dialogue, and reflection.

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In August 2022, the FRK Foundation hosted a private celebration at Schloss Blühnbach to honour the life and legacy of Frederick R. Koch and to mark the launch of the Foundation’s Austrian chapter. The weekend reflected Mr. Koch’s enduring passion for history, restoration, and the arts.

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