About the Orchestra Academy

The Orchestra Academy of the Staatskapelle Berlin, conceived in 1997 by Daniel Barenboim (general music director until January 2023), continues a century-old tradition of educating and training musicians: passing on playing techniques and musical concepts directly from the experienced musicians to budding colleagues. Highly gifted graduates of conservatoires under 27 years of age are granted a two-year scholarship following a successful audition. During this time they gain varied experience in practical orchestral work and benefit from the extraordinarily wide repertoire of Staatskapelle with its double function as a concert orchestra on stage as well as in the pit during opera and ballet performances. To be prepared for these challenges the academy members receive extensive training and advice from their mentors. Their education is supplemented by chamber music lessons and individual coaching sessions. By now, many former academy members play in renowned orchestras worldwide or became permanent members of Staatskapelle Berlin.

For further information please have a look at our anniversary publication »25 Jahre Orchesterakademie« (2.64 MB, pdf).

The Orchestra Academy is supported by the Freunde und Förderer der Staatsoper Unter den Linden e.V.

If you are interested in supporting the Orchestra Academy, please contact Friends and Sponsors.

Photo | Zuzanna Specjal