- The Fifty-Year Anniversary of the Young German Philharmonic is Upon Us
An one-of-a-kind band hits its 50th milestone: the Young German Philharmonic, stationed in Frankfurt. The twist: the collective runs itself since its inception, featuring only students as its members. "It functions marvelously well," affirms the latest managing director, Maximilian von Aulock, who assumed office on July 1st. They convene the approximately 260 members multiple times a year, led by a board and a program committee.
The membership prerequisites: studying at a German-language music school within Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, and falling within the age range of 18 to 28 years. Prospective members are regularly called in for trials in Frankfurt. The orchestra boasts a highly diverse roster, with current players hailing from over 30 different nations. Generally, they serve a term of two to four years in the young student orchestra.
As the Young German Philharmonic was instated in 1974, it echoed a strong drive for cultural liberation, social reform, and democratic education, recounts spokesperson Judith Zimmermann. The musicians yearned for a local orchestra that resonated with their voices. Financially, the fledgling orchestra relies on backing from the federal, regional, and local governments. "It's still far from sufficient," clarifies Aulock. Moreover, it receives financial support from numerous patrons, including private and public foundations.
Annually, the Young German Philharmonic arranges an autumn and spring tour. In recent years, the orchestra has also spearheaded its signature small event in Frankfurt called "Freispiel," set to transpire from August 29th to September 1st this year. The festival will culminate with a debut performance of a composed work specifically for the Young German Philharmonic at the Frankfurter Paulskirche: composer Diana Syrse has incorporated statements from the first German National Assembly of 1848.
During the subsequent anniversary autumn tour, Mahler's 7th Symphony will grace the schedule. The official anniversary concert will occur on September 14th in Wiesbaden. Their tour will then conclude with Jonathan Nott, who has led the ensemble as its first conductor and artistic advisor for ten years. As of now, his successor remains unannounced.
"As a self-governing, democratic orchestra, the Young German Philharmonic has etched its name in history and is still molding the orchestral landscape," summarizes Zimmermann. Groups such as the Ensemble Modern, the Freiburger Barockorchester, and the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie have emerged from its progeny.
The Young German Philharmonic, renowned for its 50th milestone, has strong roots in Hessen, as Frankfurt serves as its permanent home. During their annual autumn tour, they will perform Mahler's 7th Symphony in Wiesbaden, a city located in Hessen.
