The orchestra of the Technical University of Darmstadt invites you to two outstanding concerts in February 2025, showcasing the diversity and depth of late Romantic music. Under the direction of Christian Weidt, the orchestra will perform a challenging program featuring works by Richard Wagner, Johannes Brahms, and Anton Bruckner. Together with the TU Darmstadt choir, an impressive musical bridge will be built between these composers.

The concerts will take place on Friday, February 14, at 8 PM in the Stadthalle Groß-Umstadt, and on Saturday, February 15, at 6 PM in the Darmstadtium.

One of the evening’s works is Richard Wagner’s Rienzi Overture (1842). This heroic composition, characterized by powerful fanfares and an imposing brass section, is a prime example of Wagner’s early style.

Another highlight is Johannes Brahms’ Nänie (1881), performed with the TU Darmstadt choir. This moving setting of Friedrich Schiller’s poem of the same name is a musical reflection on grief and loss. Brahms wrote the piece after the death of his friend, painter Anselm Feuerbach. The ancient term “Nänie” refers to a funeral song from Greek mythology and Roman traditions.

Anton Bruckner's 7th Symphony in E Major (1883) will also be featured in the program. This work is regarded as one of the most important in Bruckner’s oeuvre and is deeply influenced by his admiration for Richard Wagner. Particularly, the poignant Adagio, which Bruckner completed shortly after Wagner’s death, reflects his profound mourning.

The selection of works by Wagner, Brahms, and Bruckner uniquely combines the themes of grief, heroism, and redemption. These pieces unite the personal fates of the composers with their musical visions, opening up a fascinating soundscape for the audience that is both deeply moving and inspiring.

Conductor Christian Weidt, who has led the TU Darmstadt orchestra since 2010, has meticulously rehearsed this multifaceted program with the ensemble.

Tickets are available in advance for €19, and for students and pupils for €5, via Eveeno, or at the box office for €20.