The Gürzenich-Orchester Köln is one of Germany's leading orchestras both in concert and opera. The orchestra was named after Colognes historic Gürzenich ballroom, where the orchestra began playing their concerts in 1857. Numerous major orchestral works were written for and premiered by the Gürzenich-Orchester Köln including Brahms' Double Concerto, Mahlers' 5th Symphony and Strauss' Till Eulenspiegel. Since 1986 the ensemble resides in Colognes Philharmonie where they play about 50 concerts per year. In 2004, Markus Stenz assumed the position of Chief conductor of the Gürzenich-Orchester Köln and was named General Music Director of the City of Cologne in 2005.

for more information see projects .