The 12 Cellists of the Berlin Philharmonic will grace the Shenzhen Concert Hall once again tomorrow evening, presenting a program that bridges classical masterpieces and modern reinterpretations, all deeply rooted in European and American musical traditions.

Founded in 1972 and three-time winners of the ECHO Klassik Award, this extraordinary ensemble comprises 12 of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra’s finest cellists. Renowned for their powerful, resonant sound, their performances transcend eras, winning over audiences across generations.

The 12 Cellists of the Berlin Philharmonic. Photos courtesy of Shenzhen Concert Hall

Whether interpreting classical works, jazz, tango, or avant-garde pieces, they effortlessly demonstrate technical brilliance, rich tonal textures, and artistic versatility.

Now in its third generation of members, the group remains unchanged in its pursuit of musical excellence and stylistic diversity. Their performances strike a perfect balance — alternately sweeping listeners away with grandeur and drawing them into moments of intimacy.

The 12 Cellists of the Berlin Philharmonic. 

Tomorrow’s concert will begin with Julius Klengel’s “Hymnus for 12 Cellos in G Major” — the very work that inspired the ensemble’s creation. In 1972, a radio broadcast of this piece, performed by the founding members, convinced both the public and the orchestra that this unique collective had to endure. 

Next, Boris Blacher’s “Blues, Espagnola, and Rumba Philharmonica” masterfully blends jazz blues, Spanish flair, and Latin rumba rhythms into a modern chamber music tapestry. The program then shifts to Gabriel Fauré’s eternal “Pavane,” a piece that bridges past and present. 

Georges Ulmer’s “Pigalle” follows, vividly evoking post-war Paris with its mix of charm and melancholy, transforming the playful spirit of chanson into strings that both tease and lament. The first half concludes with ensemble member Stephan Koncz’s “Swinging Dvořák” — a jazz-inspired reimagining of the Czech composer’s folk themes.

After intermission, the mood turns lively and impassioned: Astor Piazzolla’s “Suite del Ángel” (arranged by José Carli) exudes wild, exotic energy, followed by Wilhelm Kaiser-Lindemann’s rendition of the French classic “Sous le Ciel de Paris” and Jean Françaix’s sparkling “Morning Serenade.” 

The evening culminates with two Afro-American spirituals before closing in jazz-infused splendor — George Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm” and Duke Ellington’s “Caravan.”

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as these 12 virtuosos weave together classical grandeur and genre-defying adaptations.

Time: 7:30 p.m., July 8

Tickets: 180-880 yuan

Venue: Shenzhen Concert Hall, Futian District (深圳音乐厅)

Metro: Line 3 or 4 to Children’s Palace Station (少年宫站), Exit D