The Deutsche Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz has been bringing music to the people for over a century. The orchestra has never had its own concert hall; instead, its musicians have always traveled across the region. There’s no doubt—the Staatsphilharmonie is a migratory bird. Its movement toward the audience drives its purpose. A perfect performance resembles a breathtakingly synchronized flight maneuver: numerous individuals forming a precisely coordinated flock, responding swiftly and sensitively to each other. Just as migratory birds observe distant flock members to anticipate changes in direction or formation, orchestra musicians play with close attention to their colleagues.
In the shadow of World War I, committed citizens in Landau came together in September 1919 to establish a traveling state symphony orchestra. Following its inaugural concert on February 15, 1920, the orchestra embarked on its first tour through the Pfalz and Saarland. Thus began the story of the Deutsche Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz, now boasting a rich tradition.
In its early years, the orchestra garnered regional and national attention under conductors such as Richard Strauss and Hermann Abendroth. Esteemed chief conductors, including Christoph Eschenbach and Leif Segerstam (now Honorary Conductor), further elevated the orchestra to international renown. Michael Francis, Chief Conductor since the 2019–2020 season, continues to provide fresh inspiration to build upon this storied legacy.
As an orchestra without a fixed home, its primary mission remains the symphonic outreach of the Rheinland-Pfalz region. With 154 performances across 30 venues both domestically and abroad, the orchestra continues to bring music to the people. Its educational and family programs enrich offerings for young audiences, introducing even the youngest listeners to classical music through rehearsal visits and “crawl concerts.” Regular broadcasts by SWR and Deutschlandfunk Kultur, along with numerous CD recordings, complement its wide-ranging activities.
The orchestra’s love of travel and exploration is not just geographic. It also ventures into new realms musically and culturally. For the Staatsphilharmonie, bringing music to the people means not only being present but also profoundly connecting with audiences. As a cornerstone of cultural life, it remains a beacon of culture for Rheinland-Pfalz and beyond.
