German Concert Series in partnership with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in London

Wigmore Hall is to launch a German Concert Series with the support of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in London, with five concerts across September and October 2021.

This exceptionally generous funding comes at a crucial time, not only in the wake of COVID-19 but also the difficulties faced by artists and venues in the aftermath of Brexit. Central to the Hall throughout its history, this is a welcome opportunity to highlight the essential relationship between German and British musical life, art and artistry.

As well as a celebration of German musicianship, the German Concert Series marks the first concerts in the 2021/22 Season for which German artists are traveling to the UK to perform at Wigmore Hall – a welcome return, for artists and audiences alike.

John Gilhooly said “We are extremely grateful to the German Embassy for their partnership with us and financial support as we bring these artists back to the Wigmore Hall stage. We look forward to working together on this series and for our ongoing relationship in the years ahead.”

German Ambassador, Andreas Michaelis, said “Music is one of the strongest bonds that tie our nations together. It has done so for centuries from G.F. Händel, whose musical genius we share, to the outstanding talent of renowned artists such as Christian Gerhaher and Ian Bostridge in each other’s country.

With its German roots, Wigmore Hall has long been known for showcasing exceptional German musical talent in the United Kingdom. There is hardly a contemporary German composer, conductor or classical musician who will not look back with gratitude and fondness to their first performance under the famous Arts and Crafts cupola. At this time of uncertainty and division, we need initiatives such as the Wigmore Hall German Concert Series more than ever.”

Visit here to read the full statement from the Ambassador

Performances by Christian Tetzlaff, Christian Gerhaher, Diana Damrau and Akademie für alte Musik Berlin encompass among other things the modernism of Bartók, a rarely-heard cycle by Schoeck, the songs of Duparc, Strauss and Obradors, and works by Bach. With German artistry at the forefront, the repertoire for these concerts spans eight European countries – a reflection of the richness of the European musical landscape and its place on the UK concert stage.