Berlin is a world-renowned musical centre, known for its techno scene and the peerless Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. However, relatively few are aware that the city also boasts a long tradition of fostering avant-garde artists dating back to composers such as Kurt Weill, Arnold Schönberg, and Edgard Varese in the early 20th century.

In March, the Berliner Festspiele opens its doors for the 10-day MaerzMusik Festival, which celebrates many of the most cutting edge contemporary classical composers and performers around, while also paying homage to some 20th century visionaries.

What is MaerzMusik?

The MaerzMusik Festival is first and foremost an exploration of time, one of the central elements of many art forms and music in particular. To the organisers and participants of MaerzMusik, time is not only a commodity or an item in the musical toolbox, but a springboard for philosophical discussion and cultural reflection.

MaerzMusik will showcase the temporal aspect of the musical art form through a variety of orchestral and small-ensemble works, as well as musical theatre and multi-media performances. 

More than music

Despite what its name suggests, MaerzMusik is not solely comprised of performances, but also contains discussion and lectures in a series called "The Diversity of Reality". Once more tackling the issue of time, The Diversity of Reality addresses the different realities with each day presenting itself as an encounter that tells its own story. 

Particular focus will be paid to the beginning of time itself, and the implications in each of these disciplines. With so many weighty conversations and stimulating concerts available, this festival is bound to pique the curiosity of everyone, from die-hard contemporary music fans to casual dreamers.

Get your MaerzMusik tickets

Get your tickets MaerzMusik online in advance. For more information, tickets, and directions by public transport, please see the Berliner Festspiele website.

Thumb image credit: © Wonge Bergmann / Berliner Festspiele