Resident orchestras

The Gürzenich-Orchestra Köln is deeply rooted in the city – and at the same time internationally renowned. With pioneering interpretations, innovative programming and a broad commitment that extends beyond the concert hall, it is regarded as one of Germany’s leading orchestras.

Founded in 1827 by the Concert Society of Cologne and serving as the city’s orchestra since 1888, the Gürzenich-Orchestra continues to shape Cologne’s vibrant musical life to this day. Each year, it captivates more than 100,000 listeners at the Kölner Philharmonie and performs in around 160 opera productions.

Its history reaches back to the Middle Ages, and numerous landmark works in music history were premiered by the orchestra. Particularly significant are the world premieres of major Romantic masterpieces by Johannes Brahms, Richard Strauss and Gustav Mahler – all closely associated with the Gürzenich Orchestra.

This legacy is both an inspiration and a responsibility: it forms the foundation for an artistic philosophy that connects tradition and the present, building bridges to the music of our time.

Andrés Orozco-Estrada is Gürzenich Kapellmeister and General Music Director of the City of Cologne since the 2025/26 season.

The WDR Sinfonieorchester Köln is one of the leading orchestras in Germany. Despite its international reputation, it also has a strong local presence, with the renowned Kölner Philharmonie concert hall as its home venue. It also performs in major halls throughout Germany and Europe such as the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg or the Concertgebouw Amsterdam, at festivals such as the BBC Proms, Romania’s George Enescu Festival or the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival, as well as during regular tours throughout Asia and Europe.  Award-winning CD productions complement the ensemble's portfolio.

Since 2019, the orchestra has been under the baton of Cristian Măcelaru, following the footsteps of important predecessors including Christoph von Dohnányi, Gary Bertini, Semyon Bychkov and Jukka-Pekka Saraste. Designated principal conductor of the WDR Symphony Orchestra is the French conductor Marie Jacquot, who will take on this role in the 26/27 season.