Over the course of its journey, the Mahler Chamber Orchestra has won many friends and partners. Founder Claudio Abbado, Principal Conductor Daniel Harding, and many other well-known soloists and conductors have been friends since the very beginning. We consider ourselves lucky to have so many fellow travellers at our side - in particular, of course, the Friends of the MCO. Without them, the MCO´s journey would have been much more difficult.
The members of the MCO Friends come from fourteen different nations. They travel to the orchestra’s performances, or follow the ensemble’s development through other means. The MCO’s internationality, which extends to its support network, is one of its greatest treasures. We hope that you feel this as well and that, as a Friend of the MCO, you feel at home with us, no matter where we may meet.
We are greatly looking forward to welcoming you as a new Friend at MCO concerts and other events. Prof. Andreas Richter Intendant/General Manager
As a Friend … …you receive regular information about the orchestra and its activities …you can attend MCO rehearsals …you have opportunities to meet the musicians in person …you receive assistance in purchasing tickets for MCO concerts …you are invited to the various events of the MCO Friends Association
* Seniors from age 65 ** Students and young people until their 27th birthday
And this is what some Friends have to say about the Friends circle and the MCO:
The orchestra’s professionalism and, in particular, its freshness and enthusiasm. You have the feeling of belonging to one family, together with the personable musicians, and at rehearsals and concerts you are absolutely at the edge of your seat, as if you were joining in on the music-making yourself. Inga und Stephan Brühl, Germany
I became a Friend because these musicians are motivated and talented artists who demonstrate every time that music-making is not only magical, but also fun! Their commitment and connection to this orchestra continues to grow, and I also wish to continue to be there for them and support them. Cristina Venegas, Spain
I originally joined the Friends because I knew one of the musicians. Over time, a special bond has developed with all of the members and I have the impression that we are all part of the same family. These musicians give us a lot and we try to give them strong support in return. Marie José Favier, France
I enjoy being a „Friend“ of the MC because it is such a good orchestra and I have a sense of being part of its overall development, because I get a feeling of being important to the orchestra. Because I am fascinated by the passion and enthusiasm with which the musicians do their job – not a trace of routine! Birgit Zinecker, Germany
The MCO matches my ideal of making music. Thanks to this orchestra, I have experienced many hours of untarnished, exciting experiences with great works of music. Rosemary Ripperger, Germany
After you have heard the orchestra play in Ferrara, and met the musicians, you realize where their brilliance and their success come from: the enormous enthusiasm and the professionalism with which they do their work, and the immeasurable joy with which they make music together, are immediately apparent. Ermanno Lupezza, Italy