the Berlin Orchestra

The Berlin Philharmonic (German: Berliner Philharmoniker) is a German symphony orchestra based in Berlin, founded in 1882. It has received numerous honors including Grammy Awards, Gramophone Awards, Classic BRIT Awards, ECHO Music Prizes, the Grand Prix du Disque, and the Diapason d’Or.

The orchestra emerged from the Bilsesche Kapelle (“Bilse’s Band”) and rose to prominence under pianist-conductor Hans von Bülow. During the 20th century it was led, among others, by Wilhelm Furtwängler (1922–45; 1952–54), Herbert von Karajan (1955–89), and Claudio Abbado (1989–2002). Under Furtwängler and Karajan, it became known for a distinctive sound, high-level musicianship, and extensive touring. In the latter half of the 20th century, the ensemble broadened its repertoire to include more Classical, Romantic, and 20th-century works, as well as lesser-known compositions and music from outside the Austro-German tradition.

Since Furtwängler’s tenure, the orchestra has made many recordings, with output expanding significantly during the Karajan era. Under Herbert von Karajan, it experimented with new recording technologies and gained worldwide fame through studio recordings, most of which were released on Deutsche Grammophon. Several recordings—especially symphonic works by Classical, Romantic, and early 20th-century composers—won international awards and received critical acclaim.

In the 21st century, the orchestra launched the Digital Concert Hall in 2009 and its own label, Berliner Philharmoniker Recordings, in 2014. Each year it collaborates with an artist-in-residence and a composer-in-residence. Following Sir Simon Rattle’s term (2002–2018), Kirill Petrenko has served as music director and chief conductor since 2019. Its current home venue is the Berliner Philharmonie.