CLASSICAL MUSIC IN THE RUHR METROPOLIS
One of the most enjoyable aspects of classical music is the vast repertoire of different styles from many eras that orchestras and ensembles perform. Some of the finer groups of performers in Germany play an eclectic collection of favourites in stunning venues.
Expats can experience inspiring concerts and magnificent classical performances in Essen, Dortmund, Bochum, Duisburg and Hagen. Throughout the season, many international conductors and orchestras also give guest appearances while on tour in the Ruhr Metropolis.
ESSENER PHILHARMONIKER
The Essener Philharmoniker are a delight to hear, possessing an eclectic collection of favourites. They are one of the finer groups of performers in Germany.
Founded in 1899 as the Städtische Orchester of Stadt Essen they today form part of the Theater und Philharmonie Essen, located in the heart of the Ruhr Metropolis. The complex also includes the impressive oprea house designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.
PHILHARMONISCHES ORCHESTER HAGEN
The Philharmonische Orchester was founded in Hagen in 1907 as the first municipal orchestra in the picturesque eastern area of the Ruhr Metropolis know as Westphalia. The venue built in 1911 has been recognised as one of the leading stages in the German-speaking world. The orchestra presents a versatile collection of concerts throughout the season, playing in the Theater Hagen. The theatre also presents a variety of operas from several origins.
DUISBURGER PHILHARMONIKER
Founded in the Ruhr Metropolis as early as 1877, the Duisburger Philharmoniker is one of the most important cultural institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia. They enjoy an excellent reputation as a versatile and powerful orchestra. A wide repertoire that includes forgotten composers is traditionally performed in the historic Mercatorhalle and the Theater Duisburg opera house as well as more unique locations.
DORTMUNDER PHILHARMONIKER
The Dortmunder Philharmoniker are firmly rooted in their city, where the municipal orchestra plays for one and all in the east of the Ruhr Metropolis. Ever since their foundation in 1887, they have played consistently in the league of great German concert and opera orchestras. Besides an international opera ensemble, Philharmonic Concerts, Viennese Classical Concerts and Chamber Concerts are flanked by educational music programmes for the young.
ESSENER PHILHARMONIKER
The Essener Philharmoniker are a delight to hear, possessing an eclectic collection of favourites. They are one of the finer groups of performers in Germany. Founded in 1899 as the Städtische Orchester of Stadt Essen they today form part of the Theater und Philharmonie Essen, located in the heart of the Ruhr Metropolis. The complex also includes the impressive oprea house designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.
BOCHUMER SYMPHONIKER
The Bochumer Symphoniker played their first public concert in 1919. The last two decades especially, have seen them advance to become one of Germany’s leading orchestras. A milestone in the development of the orchestra was the opening of the iconic Anneliese Brost Musikforum Ruhr in 2016. Integrated into an impressive yet disused church, the ultra modern complex offers its enthusiast audiences a highly impressive ambience.
Original language movies are popular among expats living across the Ruhr Metropolis. Films are screened regularly in English original with subtitles, known as OmU and without, portrayed as OV. A wide variety of cinemas or movie theatres can be found, both large and small.
