Concerts include the Musikfest Berlin at the Berlin Philharmonie, the Concertgebouw, and Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie

KANSAS CITY, Mo. | February 27, 2024 — The Kansas City Symphony proudly announces its first-ever European concert tour in August 2024, marking a significant milestone in the orchestra’s 42-year history. Led by the Symphony’s incoming Music Director, Matthias Pintscher, the orchestra will be presented by Amsterdam’s storied Concertgebouw, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, and one of the most prominent music festivals in Europe – Musikfest Berlin at the Berlin Philharmonie.

Under Pintscher’s musical leadership, the orchestra looks forward to representing the vibrant performing arts of Kansas City, Missouri on the global stage, bringing programs of largely American works. “We are honored and excited to receive this distinguished invitation, recognizing the exceptional talent and dedication of our musicians,” expressed Danny Beckley, President and CEO, the Kansas City Symphony. “This European tour is not only a testament to the orchestra’s artistic achievements, yet also an opportunity to showcase our versatility and mastery of the symphonic art form. Audiences can anticipate an enchanting musical journey featuring classical masterpieces.”

In spring 2023, the orchestra unveiled the extraordinary news of Matthias Pintscher’s appointment as the next Music Director, sparking global interest. Invitations from prestigious venues and festivals like Musikfest Berlin, Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, and the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam followed suit, marking a significant milestone for the orchestra.

Pintscher expresses enthusiasm for the journey, stating, “Performing in three of the top halls in Europe, we will showcase music that has shaped our identity as musicians. Touring presents a unique challenge as we showcase our artistic versatility, adapting our sound to different venues. It’s a time for exploration and can be an energetic, uplifting bonding experience — a real source of pride among our team. We are ready for this challenge and eager to demonstrate how American musicians perform at the highest level.”

Pintscher adds, “The new hall in Hamburg is spectacular. I conducted there during its opening season and wrote the first piece performed in the hall. This opportunity is a gift and tribute to the people of Kansas City, as we assume the role of ambassadors in three breathtaking cities. This will be a powerful and joyful experience.”

Beckley continues, “We aim to bring concerts to Europe radiating from the heart of America. Kansas City, a significant cultural destination, takes pride in having built an orchestra representing our thriving metropolitan city on the world stage.”

Acclaimed pianist Conrad Tao joins the orchestra for the tour, playing George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Tao, dubbed “the kind of musician shaping the future of classical music” by New York Magazine, is the recipient of the Avery Fisher Career Grant and a Gilmore Young Artist.

Concert Schedule:

  • Monday, August 26 – Amsterdam Concert at the Concertgebouw
    • Ives: Three Places in New England
    • Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue
    • Bernstein: Symphonic Dances from West Side Story
    • Ravel: Rapsodie espagnole
  • Wednesday, August 28 – Berlin Concert at Berlin Philharmonie
    • Ives: Decoration Day and The Fourth of July from New England Holidays
    • Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue
    • Copland: Symphony No. 3
  • Thursday, August 29 – Hamburg Concert at the Elbphilharmonie
    • Ives: Three Places in New England
    • Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue
    • Copland: Symphony No. 3

About Matthias Pintscher, Conductor, and Composer
Matthias Pintscher, newly appointed Music Director of the Kansas City Symphony, brings a wealth of experience and artistry to his role. Having concluded a decade-long tenure as the Music Director of the Ensemble Intercontemporain, Pintscher has demonstrated his commitment to contemporary music. His dual role as conductor and composer has earned him recognition globally, with his works featured in major symphony orchestras worldwide. The 2023-24 season marks his fourth year as Creative Partner at the Cincinnati Symphony, further solidifying his impact on the world of classical music.

About the Kansas City Symphony
Founded in 1982 by R. Crosby Kemper, Jr., the Kansas City Symphony has risen to rank among the top 25 orchestras in the United States. In our 42-week season, we present a diverse repertoire of orchestral and chamber music at Helzberg Hall, located in the prestigious Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
Under the direction of Michael Stern for 19 years, the Symphony has achieved artistic excellence, critical acclaim, and national recognition. In July 2024, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of conductor and composer Matthias Pintscher as our new music director, known for leading world-class orchestras and opera companies. Comprising 80 full-time musicians from around the world, our Symphony Chorus, led by Charles Bruffy, frequently joins them on stage. Season after season, we feature soloists from various genres, bringing a diverse range of musical experiences to our audience.

Beyond traditional performances, we extend our reach across the Kansas City metro region with our portable stage, the Mobile Music Box. As the proud orchestra for the Kansas City Ballet and Lyric Opera of Kansas City, we continue to enrich the community through music. Whether captivating audiences at the Kauffman Center, on the Mobile Music Box, or at community events like Celebration at the Station, the Symphony remains dedicated to enriching the lives of all Kansas City residents and visitors through the transformative power of music. For more information, visit kcsymphony.org.