From the Vienna Philharmonic to the conductors Lorin Maazel and Kurt Masur, as well as renowned pianists like András Schiff or Martin Stadtfeld, internationally renowned musicians are represented. Notable singers like Lucia Aliberti, Annette Dasch, and Christine Schäfer also ensure musical highlights.
In addition, the annual program includes jazz and children's events. The Philharmonic places particular importance on the commitment of "In Residence" artists, which so far have included contemporary composers like Mauricio Kagel or Wolfgang Rihm as well as conductors like Christoph Eschenbach or Christophe Rousset.
After two years of renovation, the Philharmonie Essen opened its new building in 2004 in the historic Saalbau, which has a 100-year tradition as a concert hall. The Alfried Krupp Hall, with its bright wooden tones, deep blue sky, and red seating, forms the centerpiece of the Philharmonie and accommodates 1906 visitors.
Particular emphasis was placed on its acoustics during the redesign of the Philharmonie, and it is considered outstanding. The glass cube of the RWE Pavilion (350 seats), which offers a view of the Stadtgarten, provides a stage for jazz concerts, chamber music, and matinees, as well as for receptions and celebrations.
