Münchner Philharmoniker

(Munich Philharmonic Orchestra)

Founded in 1893, the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra has since evolved into a renowned European orchestra steeped in tradition under conductors such as Gustav Mahler, Richard Strauss, Wilhelm Furtwängler or Herbert von Karajan. In the early 1980s, conductor Sergiu Celibidace initiated a groundbreaking era spanning two decades in which the orchestra properly established itself internationally. After Celibidache's death, James Levine was appointed principal conductor in 1999, extending the orchestra's repertoire to embrace more contemporary music. Since 2000, the Philharmonic Orchestra, in collaboration with the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, has successfully raised popular awareness of classical music with the concert series "Klassik am Odeonsplatz". These open-air concerts combine music of the highest quality with typical Munich flair in Munich's most beautiful square.

Through its project, "Jugend horcht" ("Listen, youngsters!") – an extensive programme for children and young people which has received a lot of praise – the orchestra also demonstrates its commitment to bringing on the next generation of musicians.

In October 2004, Christian Thielemann conducted his celebrated inaugural concert as the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra's new General Music Director.