The Cologne Chamber Orchestra is renowned for its sensitive and exceptional interpretations. Founded in 1923 with the aim of interpreting works in authentic and faithful ways, it was initially led by Hermann Abendroth and later Erich Kraack, with Helmut Müller-Brühl becoming conductor in 1963. An acclaimed tour of Switzerland with guest pianist Wilhelm Kempff in 1964 marked the beginning of the orchestra’s collaborations with numerous internationally renowned soloists, and the orchestra has subsequently toured Europe, North and South America, and Asia. The Cologne Chamber Orchestra has been organising its own subscription series, Das Meisterwerk, in the Cologne Philharmonie for over 30 years.

As Germany’s oldest chamber orchestra, it celebrated i...