Europakonzert at Schloss Esterházy Europakonzert at Schloss Esterházy

Since 1991, the Europakonzert has been held annually on 1 May at a culturally and historically significant venue in Europe. The concert pays tribute to the diversity of the continent’s countries and cultures, while also commemorating the founding of the Berliner Philharmoniker on 1 May 1882. 2026 marks the 35th anniversary of this special format, which has developed into a visible cultural symbol of European unity. The musicians of the Berliner Philharmoniker see themselves as musical ambassadors for peaceful coexistence in Europe. This year, the orchestra will perform in Austria, at the historic Esterházy Palace.

Together with chief conductor Kirill Petrenko, the orchestra pays homage to Joseph Haydn. In the 18th century, Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt served both as the residence of Prince Nikolaus I and as Haydn’s long-standing place of work. As Kapellmeister, he helped shape emerging genres such as the symphony.

At the Europakonzert, Kirill Petrenko and the Berliner Philharmoniker combine an overture by Haydn with works by Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky — composers who engage with his legacy in different ways. The soloist in Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Rococo Theme is cellist Gautier Capuçon.

As always, the Europakonzert will be broadcast to numerous countries, offering a wide audience – including viewers at home – the chance to join this unique concert experience.