Interesting facts about classical music in Vienna

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a symphony orchestra and a chamber orchestra? Or why Mozart has “Amadeus” as his first name? Or what you should wear to a concert in Vienna? Here you will find all the answers and one or two anecdotes. Have fun!

Künstler des Wiener Residenz Orchesters auf den Stiegen des Palais Auersperg

The Vienna Residence Orchestra

The traditional chamber orchestra plays daily at the Palais Alte Börse and is accompanied by opera singers and a ballet couple.

Marco Di Sapia singt aus "die lustige Witwe"

The Hofburg Orchestra

Founded in 1971 by Gert Hofbauer, it brings together Vienna’s best musicians. With 30-40 musicians and renowned singers, it offers top-class programs.

Prunkvoller Festsaal mit Kronleuchtern, Orchester auf der Bühne, dekoriert mit Fahnen und Pflanzen

New Year's concert in Vienna

The Vienna Philharmonic concert is the best known, but not the only one. Other classical concerts also offer festive music at the start of the year.

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna

The baroque summer residence on the outskirts of Vienna bears witness to the splendid history of the Habsburgs and has been impressing visitors with its magnificent gardens since the 17th century.

Vienna State Opera

The opera house on Vienna’s Ring has been delighting audiences with world-class performances since 1869. The venue for famous world premieres such as Strauss’ Rosenkavalier and Wagner’s Parsifal.

Mozart als Kind

Mozart - the child prodigy

Where would it be more appropriate to perform Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” – a parable of life and death – than in St. Stephen’s Cathedral, where his funeral service was held after the composer’s death in 1741?

Mozart als Erwachsener, Barbara Krafft, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Mozart - The coming of age of a child prodigy

After his return from Italy as a “Cavaliere”, Mozart entered a new phase full of personal maturity and important musical masterpieces.

Classical concert in Vienna 7 tips

Vienna combines imperial flair and musical tradition. Here are seven tips for attending a classical concert – for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.