The Mahler Chamber Orchestra (MCO), founded in 1997, has a unique sound and independent artistic identity. The Orchestra’s philosophy, inspired by founder Claudio Abbado, stresses the power of listening and communication both structurally and musically (‘the Sound of Listening’)so that the Orchestra, its musicians and management all operate as a democratic collective. Engaging with artistic partners, including Mitsuko Uchida, Conductor LaureateDaniel Harding, Artistic AdvisorDaniele Gatti, and Artistic Partner for lmmersive ExperiencesHenrik Oppermann/Schallgeber; the MCO undertakes multiyear projects.
With musicians of 27 nationalities living round the world, the MCO reaches live audiences in 40 countries and 5 continents. The Orchestra’s residencies include Carnegie Hall, Mozartwoche Salzburg, and Festival de Saint-Denis. They are frequent guests at Philharmonie Berlin, Musikverein Vienna, and Beethovenfest Bonn, and regularly tour Iberia and Asia. They thus engage with global audiences, creating connections across borders and cultures.
In Education and Outreach, the MCO has three flagship projects. The MCO Academy, where orchestra members share their expertise with new musicians in collaboration with OrchesterzentrumlNRW and residencies at Konzerthaus Dortmund and the Kölner Philharmonie. Feel the Music introduces music to deaf and hard-of-hearing children, for a multi-sensory experience. Heimat, a concert format where students take a multicultural journey, fosters introspection on the theme of ‘Belonging’, all highlighting the MCO’s commitment to enriching lives through music and promoting inclusivity.
In collaboration with Henrik Oppermann/Schallgeber, the MCO explores new digital technologies in and beyond the concert hall. Their virtual reality series immerses listeners, bringing them closer to the music.
Via its vibrant performances, global reach, and educational initiatives, the Orchestra makes a profound impact on the world of classical music.
