Lieder auf Banz

Song Culture in a Special Place

The Lieder auf Banz festival takes place on the Klosterwiese of Kloster Banz, above Bad Staffelstein in the Lichtenfels district of Upper Franconia. The baroque monastery complex overlooking the Upper Main Valley provides a setting that clearly distinguishes itself from the typical open-air festival: songs, texts, and fine melodies take center stage against the backdrop of one of Bavaria's most significant baroque complexes.

Concept and History

Lieder auf Banz is organized by Veranstaltungsservice Bamberg (VsB). The series aims to be a stage for the German-speaking Liedermacher, cabaret, and singer-songwriter scene. A characteristic feature is the mix of established artists and emerging prize-winners from the Hanns Seidel Foundation. Tickets for past editions have regularly sold out in advance.

Hannes Ringlstetter as Host

The evenings are hosted by the Bavarian cabaret artist and musician Hannes Ringlstetter, who connects the festival with his distinctive humor and musical sensibility. For several editions, he has shaped the tone of the event and, in addition to the invited acts, is a draw for the audience himself.

Kloster Banz and its Surroundings

Kloster Banz, co-designed by Johann Dientzenhofer in the 18th century, is located on a ridge between Lichtenfels and Bad Staffelstein – in close proximity to the pilgrimage church Vierzehnheiligen. Today, the complex serves as a conference center for the Hanns Seidel Foundation. For the festival, the Klosterwiese in front of the historic backdrop is used, making Lieder auf Banz one of the most atmospherically dense Liedermacher events in Franconia.