International

Carnegie Hall, the Royal Albert Hall, the Musikverein in Vienna, the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, the Berliner Philharmonie, BOZAR, the Philharmonie de Paris, Suntory Hall in Tokyo and the Lucerne Culture and Congress Centre… Over forty of the 120 concerts the orchestra gives each year are performed in the most renowned halls outside the Netherlands. As one of the leading orchestras in the world, the orchestra has a loyal, enthusiastic international following. In countries the orchestra visits regularly, devotees actively supporting the orchestra are united as donors in the organisation Global Friends of the Concertgebouworkest. 

Read more about our Global Friends

On tour 

Starting in August 2016, the Concertgebouworkest performed in all twenty-eight member states of the European Union over a period of two and a half seasons. With its RCO meets Europe tour, the orchestra highlighted the fundamental ideas and ideals which can hold the EU together.

‘I like to compare the different layers and the social complexity of Europe to polyphony: music in which different voices together form a meaningful whole. Orchestral music symbolises the value of a “polyphonic” sense of diversity. The Concertgebouworkest feels the need to celebrate this quintessentially European phenomenon. 

‘Where crises today are undermining Europe’s self-image, music can provide a counterbalance. It helps people share their thoughts and feelings with one another. Music brings people together.'

Jan Raes, Managing Director (2008–19)

UNESCO granted patronage to RCO meets Europe. Jean-Claude Juncker, then president of the European Commission, acted as patron. 

Side by side

In a special initiative called Side by Side, the Concertgebouworkest performed the opening work on each programme with a youth orchestra from that country. Members of the Concertgebouworkest gave lessons and masterclasses, sharing their knowledge and experience with younger generations and creating sustainable partnerships with youth orchestras throughout Europe – the initial inspiration behind Concertgebouworkest Young.

Watch fantastic interviews with members of the Concertgebouworkest and the youngsters they rehearse with side by side in preparation for a joint concert performance.