Concert Society Cologne

A success story spanning almost two hundred years is a good reason for pride and joy: since its foundation in 1827 by music-loving citizens of Cologne, the Concert Society has been promoting musical life in the cathedral city.

This has remained unchanged to this day. The Concert Society consists of private individuals as well as prominent companies. They are united by the goal of supporting the multifaceted work of the Gürzenich Orchestra and thus strengthening its national and international recognition. The Gürzenich Orchestra is firmly rooted on the Rhine, yet open to the world, carrying the name of Cologne beyond its borders.

The activities of the Concert Society and its members are diverse: they support the orchestra in its ongoing efforts to perform at the highest level, bringing renowned soloists and distinguished guest conductors to Cologne, and realizing ambitious programs. Musical offerings for children and young people are particularly close to their hearts, and the opening season concert has become an essential tradition in Cologne.

The Orchestra Academy of the Gürzenich Orchestra

»We are united by our enthusiasm for one of Germany's leading orchestras and our willingness to promote its young talent.« -Dr. Christoph Siemons, Chairman of the Board, Concert Society Cologne

If you want to be at the top tomorrow, you can't do without an excellent education today. The Orchestra Academy was founded with the support of the Concert Society from within the orchestra itself. This initiative sees itself as a talent factory for highly gifted instrumentalists at the end of their studies: under the guidance of experienced members of the Gürzenich Orchestra, they can gain their first experience in a top orchestra. Many of the 75 academy members from 20 countries who have participated so far now hold prestigious positions internationally, and quite a few of the graduates have made the leap and become permanent members of the Gürzenich Orchestra. Three years ago, a Steinway grand piano was purchased for the young professionals to use in their work. Important activities such as these are also part of the Concert Society's profile.

Foto auf der Bühne der Kölner Philharmonie mit 9 Stipendiaten der Orchester Akademie mit ihren Instrumenten © Astrid Ackermann

Become a member

As a member of the Concert Society, you will experience the Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne up close. You can attend orchestra rehearsals, where you will get to know conductors, soloists, and orchestra musicians personally. The annual exclusive chamber concert for the Concert Society also offers this opportunity, and you will receive a personal introduction to the new season with Stefan Englert, director of the Gürzenich Orchestra. For some time now, it has also been possible to take part in the orchestra's concert tours. The Concert Society's invitation to support cultural life is also extended to all music enthusiasts. Only by joining forces can we make great concerts and other important cultural events a reality. Help us to create something new and shape the future of the orchestra by becoming part of a community of friends. What would art be without support? Join us!

Joining the non-profit association requires a written declaration with an annual donation of at least €100 for individual membership, €150 for couple memberships, and €750 for supporters.

Curators typically contribute from €5,000 per year.
Please contact us for a personalized offer

Please fill out the application form and send it with your original signature by post to:

Concert-Gesellschaft Köln e.V.
Verein zur Förderung des Gürzenich-Orchesters Köln
c/o Gürzenich-Orchester
Bischofsgartenstraße 1
50667 Köln

Membership Application as PDF

Overview of Membership Benefits

Your benefits

As a member of the Concert-Gesellschaft, you will enjoy the following benefits:

  • Invitations to orchestra rehearsals with the opportunity for personal exchanges with orchestra members and conductors
  • A personal introduction to the new season
  • Invitations to exclusive chamber concerts for members of the Concert-Gesellschaft only
  • Advanced ticket pre-sale for all Gürzenich-Orchester concerts
  • Participation in organized concert trips with the Gürzenich-Orchester Köln

As a Patron of the Concert-Gesellschaft (additional benefits):

  • Participation in "Concert & Encounters" with a Meet and Greet in the artist foyer (2x per year)
  • Optional mention in regular publications of the Gürzenich-Orchester Köln
  • Exclusive individual ticket ordering service

As Curators of the Concert Society (additional benefits):

  • Invitations to exclusive receptions at the Hotel Excelsior Ernst
  • The opportunity to organize private events with musicians and scholarship holders of the orchestra
  • The opportunity to arrange customized events tailored to your needs with musicians and scholarship holders of the Gürzenich Orchestra