The 12 cellists of the Berlin Philharmonics are one of the most prominent institutions in international musical life. In 1972, a radio production of Julius Klengel’s »Hymnus« for twelve cellos with members of the Philharmonic’s cello section provided the impetus for the founding of a soloist ensemble of this calibre, whose tonal and virtuoso qualities won over concert audiences around the world in no time.

Today, the 12 cellists occupy an outstanding, unique position in the international music scene. Whether classical, jazz, tango or avant-garde, the sound of 12 cellos is always fascinating, producing a unique and multifaceted mixture of sound colours. The 12 cellists have managed to captivate audiences of all ages with their alternation of seriousness and humour, depth and lightness.

Contemporary composers who have written works especially for the »12« include Boris Blacher, Sebastian Currier, Brett Dean, Tan Dun, Péter Eötvös, Jean Françaix, Sofia Gubaildulina, Arvo Pärt, Wolfgang Rihm, Kaija Saariaho, Pēteris Vasks and Iannis Xenakis. As Berlin’s ambassadors, they accompanied the German Federal President on state visits. They have visited the Japanese Imperial Palace several times. Their CDs are regularly on the charts and were honoured with the Echo Klassik in 2001, 2005 and 2017.

Musicians:

Bruno Delepelaire, Ludwig Quandt, Martin Löhr, Olaf Maninger, Christoph Igelbrink, Solène Kermarrec, Stephan Koncz, Martin Menking, David Riniker, Nikolaus Römisch, Uladzimir Sinkevich, Knut Weber