Every Wednesday, interesting personalities from the world of finance and beyond share their personal preferences in our section Backstage.

What is the best thing about your job?

I can listen to a lot of music and call it work.

A moment that changed your life?

When I was allowed to turn the pages of Schubert's «Winterreise» to pianist Alfred Brendel in Salzburg at a very young age. That was when I experienced first-hand what music can really be.

What car do you drive? What is your favorite brand?

Currently just a very old Honda Jazz. I drove a BMW X7 for a few years and I have to admit that I really enjoyed it.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old-self?

Take the risk! Which ist what I did.

What are you particularly proud of?

Pride is a difficult category for me.

What was your biggest defeat?

I recently lost a basketball game against 12-year-olds for the first time.

What is your favourite wine?

«Black Print» from the Markus Schneider winery.

What are you working on at the moment?

I'm preparing for my first season as artistic director of Zurich Opera House.

What is most important to you at the moment?

To understand Swiss German completely, which I manage quite well as a Bavarian.

What is your favourite fashion brand?

Suits by Felix W. The owner's sister is a good friend.

What would be the biggest surprise for someone taking over your job for a day?

How little art is involved.

What is your personal motivation?

My deep passion for music.

What are you afraid of?

My mother-in-law 🙂

Your favourite watch brand?

Rolex (even though I don't own one).

What do your employees value most about you?

I believe that I always look ahead and don’t keep a tally of every mistake. Anyone who doesn’t make mistakes risks nothing.

Your best Investment?

Five Children.

Matthias Schulz is the new Artistic Director of Zurich Opera House. The 47-year-old will take up his post in Zurich on August 1, 2025. The former Artistic Director of the Berlin State Opera Unter den Linden studied piano and economics.