Classical Concerts at Kölner Philharmonie

Uniorchester Bonn – Camerata Musicale (Ensemble), Martin Kirchharz (Conductor)

»Singfonie – Das Partykonzert: Karnevals-Edition« verbindet die beeindruckende Klangfülle eines großen Sinfonieorchesters mit der Energie eines mitreißenden Mitsing-Events. Das Programm aus internationalen Partyhits und kölschen Klassikern lädt ein, gemeinsam zu singen, zu feiern und Teil eines unvergesslichen Gemeinschaftserlebnisses zu werden. Erleben Sie am Vorabend von Weiberfastnacht Karaoke und Lebensfreude in ihrer schönsten Form!

This season

In Köln

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac

Wed, Feb 18, 2026, 20:00

Ihre Liebe zur Musik von Fleetwood Mac und das Vermögen, eine ihren Vorbildern würdige Show auf die Beine zu stellen, hat sich schnell herumgesprochen – nicht nur bei ihren Fans, die sie seit 26 Jahren bei ihren Auftritten rund um den Erdball feiern: Längst haben »Rumours of Fleetwood Mac« auch den offiziellen Segen des Mitgründers und Schlagzeugers der Originalband, Mick Fleetwood erhalten: »An extraordinary emotive performance of Fleetwood Mac«. Das Tourmotto von »Rumours of Fleetwood Mac« lautet »It’s About Their Music«. In diesem Sinne performt die siebenköpfige Formation die Musik von Fleetwood Mac so originalgetreu wie möglich sowie mit dem gebührenden Respekt und lässt vor allem den Spirit der weltweit gefeierten Band inklusive der damaligen Zeit wieder aufleben.

This season

In Köln

Stadtgeklimper & Friends

Sat, Jun 20, 2026, 20:00

Stadtgeklimper (Piano)

Von den Straßen Kölns in die Philharmonie: Stadtgeklimper lädt ein. Unter dem Motto »Wer sein Klavier liebt, der schiebt!« zog Thelonious bereits als 16-Jähriger sein Klavier durch die Kölner Südstadt. Heute ist er aus dem Stadtleben nicht mehr wegzudenken: Ob im Stadion oder in der Bahn, mit spontanen Mitsing-Konzerten oder als Mozart verkleidet an Karneval! Grenzen kennt Thelonious nicht: Mit seinem mobilen Klavier war er in 36 Ländern und arbeitete u.a. mit Künstlern wie Cat Ballou zusammen. An diesem Abend bringt Thelonious den Spirit der Straße in die Philharmonie – mit kölschen Klängen und wichtigsten Stücken seiner musikalischen Reisen. Unterstützt wird er dabei von Gästen, die ihn auf seinem Weg inspiriert und begleitet haben.

Upcoming Concerts

Concerts at Kölner Philharmonie in season 2024/25 or later

Tonight

In Köln

Orchestre national du Capitole de Toulouse

Wed, Mar 12, 2025, 20:00

Sol Gabetta (Cello), Orchestre national du Capitole de Toulouse (Ensemble), Tarmo Peltokoski (Conductor)

Due to a strike on March 12th, access to Cologne Philharmonic will be difficult. Trams and most buses will not operate, but other train services will. Visitors should consider alternative transportation, depart early, and anticipate delays. Cellist Sol Gabetta performs alongside rising star conductor Tarmo Peltokoski, who leads a program connected to Wagner's influence without playing any of his compositions.

In a few days

In Köln

Im Fluss - Liszt & Die Rheinische + Livestream

Fri, Mar 14, 2025, 20:00

Info & Ticket (www1.wdr.de)

Alexandre Kantorow (Piano), WDR Sinfonieorchester (Orchestra), Petr Popelka (Director)

Alexandre Kantorow, winner of the 2019 Tchaikovsky Piano Competition, performs a grand romantic repertoire in Cologne. Featuring Liszt's virtuosic Piano Concerto No. 2 alongside Schumann's "Rhenish" Symphony and Wagner's rarely-heard Faust Overture.

This week

In Köln

Dobet Gnahoré

Sat, Mar 15, 2025, 20:00

Dobet Gnahoré (Vocals), Julien Pestre (Guitar), Julien Pestre (Vocals), Louis Haessler (Bass), Louis Haessler (Keys), Louis Haessler (Vocals), Bodjo Dibo (Drums), Bodjo Dibo (Vocals)

Dobet Gnahoré, a Grammy-winning Ivorian singer and dancer, has performed over 800 concerts worldwide. Her captivating performances showcase Africa's diverse musical richness with a unique blend of pan-African arrangements and breathtaking dance.

Next week

In Köln

Eye and ear

Sun, Mar 16, 2025, 11:00

Bertrand Chamayou (Piano), Gürzenich-Orchester Köln, Emmanuel Tjeknavorian (Conductor)

On a single whiplash, the door opens to a world of colours and light: Maurice Ravel’s piano concerto in G Major is fascinating from the very first note. Basque folklore, sounds from Spain and southern France, crystalline sparkle, and elegant jazz – musical notes become images, some tender and fluffy, others rich and bright. Ravel’s compatriot, French pianist Bertrand Chamayou, seems completely in his element in this dazzling bravura piece. The other two works are equally sensual to the eye and the ear: In his Ballet Gayaneh, Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian lets the sparks fly, including a fiery sabre dance. Modest Mussorgsky invites us to a vernissage where he paces from painting to painting, creatively turning each of them into sounds.

Next week

In Köln

Mozarts Zauber

Sun, Mar 16, 2025, 16:00

Joseph Moog (Piano), Kölner Kammerorchester (Ensemble), Christoph Poppen (Conductor)

As a young student, Joseph Moog was offered a contract by a renowned record company but declined. Wanting to take his time, today he is considered one of the most interesting performers of his generation. He impresses not only with his virtuosity but also with his courageous and individual program designs and pianistic rarities. He's known for his passion for classics, like Mozart's popular Piano Concerto in C Major, K. 467, which will be featured with the brilliant Cassation and the g-minor Symphony.

Next week

In Köln

Gürzenich-Chor Köln

Sun, Mar 16, 2025, 20:00

Ania Vegry (Soprano), Heike Wessels (Mezzo-Soprano), Ricardo Tamura (Tenor), Lucas Singer (Bass), Rufus Beck (Speaker), Gürzenich-Chor Köln (Ensemble), Südtiroler Vokalensemble, Dominik Bernhard (Rehearsal), Staatsorchester Rheinische Philharmonie (Ensemble), Christian Jeub (Director)

Bob Ingalls' symphonic plea for the protection of Mother Earth, "Mother Earth Cries Out!", culminates in Dvořák's powerful setting of the Stabat Mater. Inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical "Laudato si'", Ingalls' work depicts Mother Earth's desperate cry for care. Dvořák's Stabat Mater contemplates Mary's grief and the believer's compassion, ultimately turning to the prospect of paradise.

Next week

In Köln

Eye and ear

Mon, Mar 17, 2025, 20:00

Bertrand Chamayou (Piano), Gürzenich-Orchester Köln, Emmanuel Tjeknavorian (Conductor)

On a single whiplash, the door opens to a world of colours and light: Maurice Ravel’s piano concerto in G Major is fascinating from the very first note. Basque folklore, sounds from Spain and southern France, crystalline sparkle, and elegant jazz – musical notes become images, some tender and fluffy, others rich and bright. Ravel’s compatriot, French pianist Bertrand Chamayou, seems completely in his element in this dazzling bravura piece. The other two works are equally sensual to the eye and the ear: In his Ballet Gayaneh, Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian lets the sparks fly, including a fiery sabre dance. Modest Mussorgsky invites us to a vernissage where he paces from painting to painting, creatively turning each of them into sounds.

Next week

In Köln

Eye and ear

Tue, Mar 18, 2025, 20:00

Bertrand Chamayou (Piano), Gürzenich-Orchester Köln, Emmanuel Tjeknavorian (Conductor)

On a single whiplash, the door opens to a world of colours and light: Maurice Ravel’s piano concerto in G Major is fascinating from the very first note. Basque folklore, sounds from Spain and southern France, crystalline sparkle, and elegant jazz – musical notes become images, some tender and fluffy, others rich and bright. Ravel’s compatriot, French pianist Bertrand Chamayou, seems completely in his element in this dazzling bravura piece. The other two works are equally sensual to the eye and the ear: In his Ballet Gayaneh, Armenian composer Aram Khachaturian lets the sparks fly, including a fiery sabre dance. Modest Mussorgsky invites us to a vernissage where he paces from painting to painting, creatively turning each of them into sounds.

Next week

In Köln

Max Raabe & Palast Orchester

Wed, Mar 19, 2025, 20:00

Max Raabe, & Palast Orchester (Ensemble)

Max Raabe & Palast Orchester announce their 2025 concert program "Hummel streicheln" (Petting a Bumblebee). Raabe's song "Hummel" reflects his love for animals, dreaming of interacting with them in various ways. The program blends Raabe-Pop hits with 1920s/30s originals like "Heute Nacht oder nie" and "Wenn die Elisabeth."

Next week

In Köln

PhilharmonieLunch

Thu, Mar 20, 2025, 12:00

Alban Gerhardt (Cello), WDR Sinfonieorchester (Ensemble), Andrew Manze (Conductor)

Experience a small break from everyday life at the Cologne Philharmonic Hall – inspiring, touching, authentic. A place full of music, for an unusual lunch break, a break from the city noise or simply a break from everyday life. The Philharmonic Lunch is made possible by KölnMusik together with the WDR Symphony Orchestra and the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne.

Next week

In Köln

Die große Gala der lit.COLOGNE 2025

Thu, Mar 20, 2025, 20:00

Olli Dittrich, Sibel Kekilli, Hans Sigl, Kat Frankie (Vocals), Kat Frankie (Guitar), Marie-Christine Knop (Presentation)

For 25 years, lit.COLOGNE has inspired and entertained Cologne's unique audience with amazing authors, stage artists, actors, and musicians. Tonight, we celebrate everything past, present, and future. We thank you for listening, laughing, trusting, and encouraging us. Readings include thank you letters and texts about gratitude and appreciation from various figures.

Next week

In Köln

Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich

Fri, Mar 21, 2025, 20:00

Víkingur Ólafsson (Piano), Tonhalle-Orchester Zürich (Ensemble), Paavo Järvi (Conductor)

Newly appointed Düsseldorf music director's "Rhenish" Symphony, possibly inspired by Cologne Cathedral, exudes the motivational boost of his move to the Rhine. Paavo Järvi conducts this energetic piece, following Arvo Pärt's soundscapes. Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson returns as soloist in Schumann's Piano Concerto, after a global tour with Bach's Goldberg Variations.

Next week

In Köln

Angel Blue | Rotterdams Philharmonisch Orkest | Yannick Nézet-Séguin

Sat, Mar 22, 2025, 20:00

Angel Blue (Soprano), Rotterdams Philharmonisch Orkest (Ensemble), Yannick Nézet-Séguin (Conductor)

Soprano Angel Blue, known for her clear, warm, and radiant lyrical timbre, has graced opera houses from New York to Vienna and London. In Cologne, she presents Richard Strauss's melancholic and indulgent "Four Last Songs." She's accompanied by the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, who combines Strauss's poignant song cycle with Bruckner's yearning Third Symphony.

This month

In Köln

Martín García García: Albéniz | Chopin | Mompou

Sun, Mar 23, 2025, 11:00

Martín García García (Piano)

Martín García García typically takes the stage with three accessories: a bow tie, a small towel, and a lucky charm necklace. At the piano, he aims to "enjoy the moment," promising an unforgettable concert experience. Starting piano at age five in Gijon, inspired by his older brother, García later studied under Jerome Rose in New York. This concert showcases music that has shaped his life, featuring works by Chopin, Mompou, and Albéniz, reflecting his Spanish heritage. Supported by the Imhoff Foundation.

This month

In Köln

Kinderkonzert

Sun, Mar 23, 2025, 16:00

Alexander Wanat (Play), Alinde Quartett (Ensemble)

The Alinde Quartet takes the audience on a musical journey to Italy, turning the concert stage into a lively piazza filled with music, dance, and laughter. Actor Alexander Wanat joins them for an adventurous afternoon of Italian stories, music, and exuberant dances. Production by KölnMusik.

This month

In Köln

Mendelssohns Violinkonzert | Brahms 4. Sinfonie

Sun, Mar 23, 2025, 20:00

Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra (Ensemble), Julian Rachlin (Violin), Julian Rachlin (Conductor)

Julian Rachlin, the new chief conductor of the Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, will perform Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto as both conductor and soloist, a challenging task. In the second part of the concert, he will conduct Brahms's final symphony, the Fourth, in E minor.

This month

In Köln

Nina Stemme | Königliches Philharmonisches Orchester Stockholm | Ryan Bancroft

Mon, Mar 24, 2025, 20:00

Nina Stemme (Soprano), Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra (Ensemble), Ryan Bancroft (Conductor)

World-renowned mezzo-soprano Nina Stemme joins the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra, now led by Ryan Bancroft, to perform Mahler's poignant "Kindertotenlieder." Preceding this, the orchestra presents a contemporary homage to Liguria by Swedish composer Andrea Tarrodi. The concert concludes with Tchaikovsky's intensely passionate Symphony No. 5.

This month

In Köln

Simply Quartet

Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 20:00

Simply Quartet

The Simply Quartet, founded in China, trained in Madrid among other places, and based in Vienna, always aims high. As former ECHO Rising Stars, the ensemble returns to Cologne. The quartet continually seeks deeper musical understanding. The name, inspired by a Shanghai restaurant, reflects their diverse backgrounds.

This month

In Köln

Grönemeyer! lit.COLOGNE 2025

Wed, Mar 26, 2025, 21:00

Michael Lentz, Herbert Grönemeyer

This biography explores the life and work of German artist Herbert Grönemeyer, from his early role in "Das Boot" to his musical success with hits like "4630 Bochum" and "Mensch." Author Michael Lentz, a longtime friend, delves into Grönemeyer's enduring appeal, his connection to his audience, and his decades-long career.

This month

In Köln

Carnival

Thu, Mar 27, 2025, 12:00

Eva Marianne Kraiss (Actor), Christoph Bertram (Actor), Franziska Seeberg (Director), Cordula Körber (Equipment), Pauline Jacob (Libretto), Thierry Tidrow (Composition), Maike Hiller, Johanna Risse, Anna Rizzi, Clara Siegmund (Choir rehearsal), Gürzenich-Orchester Köln, Mariano Chiacchiarini (Conductor)

Charlie finds himself in a dilemma: Lou seems to be distancing themselves more and more, showing less interest in spending time together. In an effort to uplift their spirits, Charlie proposes the idea of arranging an "Emotion Carnival". They ponder which emotions induce laughter, provide the most comfort, evoke fear, or cause overwhelming joy. Together, Lou and Charlie embark on a whimsical journey to explore the depths of emotional power, inviting both young and old to join them on a musical expedition into the realm of feelings. Over the span of two months, 300 second-grade students will collaborate on a composition by Thierry Tidrow, inspired by a libretto penned by Pauline Jacob, under the guidance of vocal instructors. The culmination of their efforts will be showcased in two concerts alongside the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne. Just like any carnival, attendees are encouraged to embrace various (emotional) disguises. Note regarding the primary school concert: Interested primary school classes must register to attend the performance at koelner-philharmonie.de/education. Classes 1-4 / Duration approx. 1 hour for free To the family concert Presented by KölnMusik in collaboration with the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne and Philharmonie Luxembourg.

This month

In Köln

Innigkeit – Măcelaru & Brahms' Erste

Fri, Mar 28, 2025, 20:00

Daniel Lozakovich (Violin), WDR Sinfonieorchester (Ensemble), Cristian Măcelaru (Conductor)

Composer Fanny Hensel's work was long overshadowed by her famous brother Felix Mendelssohn, receiving proper recognition far too late. Robert Schumann's violin concerto suffered a similar fate, deemed a failed attempt and shelved by performers, with its release forbidden for 100 years. Today it's in the repertoire, and Brahms's Symphony No. 1 will form an impressive closing piece for the evening.

This month

In Köln

Four Ladies For Burt – WDR Big Band feat. Les Brünettes

Sat, Mar 29, 2025, 20:00

Les Brünettes (Vocals), WDR Big Band (Ensemble), Jörg Achim Keller (Leader), Jörg Achim Keller (Arrangements)

Les Brünettes, a German-French vocal quartet formed in 2010, is joining the WDR Big Band for the first time. Known for their diverse repertoire and sophisticated arrangements, they'll perform an evening dedicated to Burt Bacharach, featuring their rendition of "I Say a Little Prayer" among other classics.

This month

In Köln

A Carnival of Emotions

Sun, Mar 30, 2025, 11:00

Charlie finds himself in a dilemma: Lou seems to be distancing herself more and more, showing less interest in spending time together. In an effort to uplift her spirits, Charlie proposes the idea of arranging an "Emotion Carnival". They ponder which emotions induce laughter, provide the most comfort, evoke fear, or cause overwhelming joy. Together, Lou and Charlie embark on a whimsical journey to explore the depths of emotional power, inviting both young and old to join them on a musical expedition into the realm of feelings. Over the span of two months, 300 second-grade students will collaborate on a composition by Thierry Tidrow, inspired by a libretto penned by Pauline Jacob, under the guidance of vocal instructors. The culmination of their efforts will be showcased in two concerts alongside the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne. Just like any carnival, attendees are encouraged to embrace various (emotional) disguises. For families with children aged 6 and over / Duration approx. 1 hour To the school concert Presented by KölnMusik in collaboration with the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne and Philharmonie Luxembourg.

This month

In Köln

Ronald Brautigam | Die Kölner Akademie | Michael Alexander Willens

Sun, Mar 30, 2025, 16:00

Ronald Brautigam (Pianoforte), Die Kölner Akademie (Ensemble), Michael Alexander Willens (Conductor)

When Ronald Brautigam plays the fortepiano, even familiar pieces sound excitingly new. His uncompromising playing has led to the re-evaluation of prominent composers. He performs classics like Mozart with passion, sometimes thundering the keys, sometimes coaxing a wealth of colors from the instrument. Since 2009, he's collaborated with the Kölner Akademie and Michael Alexander Willens, recording acclaimed complete sets of Mozart and Beethoven piano concertos. The Cologne-based orchestra also performs Louise Farrenc's 1st Symphony, a rare successful female composer of the 19th century.

This month

In Köln

Ian Bostridge | Oberon Trio

Sun, Mar 30, 2025, 20:00

Ian Bostridge (Tenor), Oberon Trio

For tenor Ian Bostridge, songs are emotional rollercoasters. He consistently pushes his artistic boundaries, always striving for the highest standards. Whether expressing bliss or sorrow, exuberance or melancholy, Bostridge explores the depths of songs with intellectual acuity and emotional range. His distinctive performances have long been synonymous with sophisticated artistry. With the Oberon Trio, he presents a new program dedicated to the pursuit of beauty, featuring works arranged by Matthias Schlothfeldt for tenor and piano trio.

This month

In Köln

Jamie Cullum

Mon, Mar 31, 2025, 20:00

Jamie Cullum

World-renowned singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jamie Cullum will bring his European tour to Cologne's Philharmonie. Alongside his successful recording career, Cullum is an award-winning radio host, approaching all aspects of his career with boundless creativity and enthusiasm. Cologne fans can anticipate an energetic live show from the British jazz star.

Next month

In Köln

Janine Jansen | Denis Kozhukhin

Tue, Apr 1, 2025, 20:00

Janine Jansen (Violin), Denis Kozhukhin (Piano)

Exceptional violinist Janine Jansen, known for her numerous performances of Brahms' violin concerto, now focuses on his violin sonatas with award-winning pianist Denis Kozhukhin. Their exploration extends into the 20th century, encompassing Ravel, Messiaen, and Poulenc's distinct contributions to the genre. Jansen and Kozhukhin share a passion for chamber music and a dedication to shaping its emotional depths.

Next month

In Köln

Jazz mal anders: Big Band meets Theremin

Thu, Apr 3, 2025, 19:00

Info & Ticket (www1.wdr.de)

Carolina Eyck (Theremin), WDR Big Band (Orchestra), Christian Elsässer (Conductor), Jana Forkel (Moderator)

An exciting and unusual evening of music awaits, blending the theremin with jazz. Carolina and the WDR jazz musicians will showcase their diverse talents, playing everything from jazz standards to pop. The show at Cologne's Philharmonic Hall will also include a brief introductory lesson on the theremin, making this a unique event for curious music lovers.

Next month

In Köln

The King's Singers – 100 Years Of Disney

Fri, Apr 4, 2025, 20:00

The King's Singers (Ensemble), WDR Funkhausorchester (Ensemble), Enrico Delamboye (Conductor)

For over 100 years, Walt Disney's films have fascinated generations. The music plays a key role in animation's success. The King's Singers and WDR Funkhausorchester reinterpret the film classics on stage, performing a selection of Disney favorites, including Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Someday My Prince Will Come.

Next month

In Köln

Kinan Azmeh CityBand

Sat, Apr 5, 2025, 20:00

Kinan Azmeh CityBand (Ensemble)

Syrian clarinetist Kinan Azmeh believes sharing music is like sharing a meal. His music blends Mediterranean influences, classical, and jazz, reflecting his diverse inspirations. His New York quartet's performances feature complex rhythms and unique Oriental tonality, complementing Azmeh's smooth clarinet sound.