Staatskapelle Weimar

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Biography

The Staatskapelle Weimar, founded in 1491, is the oldest orchestra in Germany and among the most tradition-steeped ensembles in the world. Nationally and internationally, it enjoys a fundamental cultural significance as a guarantor of quality in the dialogue between tradition and modernity.

Its history is associated with some of the world’s best known musicians, including Johann Sebastian Bach, Johann Nepomuk Hummel, Franz Liszt and Richard Strauss. Established as premier musical institution of ‘Classical Weimar’ and part of the Hoftheater from 1791 onwards, the Hofkapelle Weimar continued to attract attention due to the achievements of Liszt and Strauss, who improved its quality and reputation during the 19th century. The orchestra was the first to perform numerous contemporary orchestral works, such as Liszt’s »Faust -Symphony«, his symphonic poems including »Les Préludes», and Strauss’s »Death and Transfiguration«, as well as operas like Wagner’s »Lohengrin«, Humperdinck’s »Hansel and Gretel«, and Saint-Saëns’ »Samson et Dalila«.

Both in its extensive concert activities and opera productions at the Deutsches Nationaltheater Weimar, Thuringia’s only A-level orchestra has worked to cultivate its great tradition in combination with innovative aspects. World-class soloists and conductors perform regularly with the Staatskapelle Weimar. In past years, the ensemble has made guest appearances in Japan, Israel, Spain, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Great Britain and in the United States, as well as in numerous major concert halls throughout Germany and at renowned festivals. From the 2024/25 season onwards, Ivan Repušić is Chief Conductor of the Staatskapelle Weimar.