The Vienna Konzerthaus is one of Austria’s major music venues and an internationally recognised concert hall. Its programme ranges from classical and early music to Renaissance and Romantic works, jazz, soul and rock. Throughout the season, numerous events attract audiences from Vienna, across Austria and from abroad.
History of the Konzerthaus
The idea of creating a venue for a broad musical life in Vienna emerged in the late nineteenth century. Construction began in 1911, and the building was ceremonially opened in 1913 with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. The original proposal envisaged a much larger complex with a cycling club, an ice rink and a stadium, but the final project centred on concert halls and an indoor skating rink.
Acoustics and audience comfort were key considerations in the design. After the Second World War, the Konzerthaus became an important part of Austria’s cultural revival. Renovations gradually altered the building’s original Art Nouveau appearance, but work in the 1970s restored many of its historic architectural features. Between 1997 and 2000, the complex was expanded with a fourth hall and modern technical equipment.
Halls and programme
The venue is closely associated with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra and has hosted many acclaimed conductors and performers. The Great Hall seats around 1,840 people, the Mozart Hall 704, the Schubert Hall 336, and the later Berio Hall approximately 400. The different spaces accommodate both large symphonic performances and intimate chamber concerts.
The annual calendar includes festivals and themed series. Early music features in winter, the Vienna Spring Festival takes place in spring, international music events are held in summer, and the programme “Wien Modern” comes in autumn. The Konzerthaus hosts more than classical concerts: in 2013, it also staged the final of Austria’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest.
Getting there
The Konzerthaus stands in central Vienna, close to Schwarzenbergplatz. Tram lines 2 and 71 serve the nearby stop. Bus 2A runs to Schwarzenbergplatz, while bus 4A offers convenient access to Akademietheater. Visitors can also arrive by taxi or car. Check the official website for current performance times and visitor information before going.
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