Over five weeks, the International Music Festival Hamburg celebrates the end of the 2024/25 season with the theme “Future,” featuring world-renowned orchestras and top-tier artists of classical music.
A Glimpse into the Future of Music
The 2024/25 edition of the International Music Festival Hamburg explores an inspiring and thought-provoking theme: “Future.” Across five weeks, the festival raises questions about where classical music is headed and how the future can be shaped through artistic innovation. In an era of unprecedented musical diversity, the festival encourages reflection on creativity and vision.
Top Orchestras and International Guests
This year, Hamburg will once again host some of the world’s greatest orchestras. Highlights include performances by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by Sir Simon Rattle.
Stars of the Classical World
The festival brings together many of the most celebrated classical artists, such as violinists Lisa Batiashvili and Janine Jansen, cellist Sol Gabetta, and pianists Igor Levit, Daniil Trifonov, Mitsuko Uchida, and many more. These artists represent both the present and the future of classical music.
Focus on Pierre Boulez
A special focus of this year’s festival is the French composer Pierre Boulez, who would have celebrated his 100th birthday in 2025. Known for his forward-thinking approach and uncompromising vision, Boulez’s work will be honored by renowned ensembles such as the London Symphony Orchestra under Sir Antonio Pappano, the cello group of the Vienna Philharmonic, and the Hamburg Philharmonic State Orchestra under Kent Nagano.
An Inspiring Season Finale
The International Music Festival Hamburg unites the city’s musical forces and delivers a spectacular finale to the 2024/25 season. This festival seamlessly blends tradition, contemporary artistry, and the future of classical music in an unforgettable celebration.
Short & Sweet
- When From 1 May to 6 June 2025
- Where Elbphilharmonie and Laieszhalle
- First year 2014
- Admission From 10 euros
- No. of visitors 78,000
- Music style Classical, jazz, world music, pop
- Nowhere but here NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchestra conducted by Alan Gilbert
