Thousands Gather to Hear Performance by Gewandhaus Orchestra Under the Open Sky
Leipzig, known as the 'City of Music', played host to an enchanting weekend of free concerts under the open sky, as the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra performed two captivating nights of classical music. The events, held in the picturesque Rosental, formed part of a tradition that has been ongoing since 2006, showcasing the orchestra's commitment to accessibility and the city's rich musical heritage.
The concerts, themed "Classical music in the open air", featured a delightful mix of light classics, including works by Johann Strauss, Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms. The programme, under the baton of conductor Franz Welser-Möst, aimed to appeal to a broad audience, from seasoned concertgoers to families and tourists. The audience, estimated at around 60,000, was treated to waltzes, polkas, and czardas, with Strauss's music being a regular highlight, especially during summer and festive open-air concerts.
The second night's performance was as enchanting as the first, with the audience showing equal enthusiasm throughout. The evening was dedicated to the late Leonard Bernstein, with a tribute featuring selections from West Side Story. The tribute was met with resounding applause, reflecting the enduring appeal of Bernstein's work.
Dirk Steiner, spokesman for the Gewandhaus, announced that the concerts served as a fundraiser for the Leipzig Opera, which aims to renovate its historic building. The events received positive reviews from critics and attendees alike, with many praising the orchestra's performance and the overall atmosphere of the concerts. The performances were even broadcast live on radio and television, allowing more people to enjoy the music.
Leipzig's musical calendar includes open-air concerts, often free and aimed at bringing classical music to broad audiences. This event reflects the city’s commitment to preserving and sharing its musical traditions, a commitment that dates back to 1743 when Leipzig merchants established the “Great Concert” society, the forerunner of the Gewandhaus Orchestra. Over the centuries, Leipzig has become home to over 500 composers, including luminaries like Bach, Mendelssohn, Schumann, and Wagner, further cementing its reputation as a "City of Music".
For those interested in attending future open-air concerts by the Gewandhaus Orchestra, consulting the orchestra's official website or Leipzig's cultural event calendar is recommended. The city's musical heritage, coupled with the orchestra's commitment to accessibility, promises another memorable series of concerts next year.
The "Classical music in the open air" events, held annually in Leipzig since 2006, presented a variety of light classics, including works by Johann Strauss, Beethoven, Mozart, and Brahms, alongside some unforgettable moments like tributes to Leonard Bernstein. These concerts serve as fundraisers for the Leipzig Opera, showcasing the city's rich musical heritage and commitment to making classical music accessible to all, with performances by the renowned Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra.
