Ensemble Musikfabrik

Since its foundation in 1990, Ensemble Musikfabrik (Landesensemble NRW) has been one of the leading ensembles for contemporary music. In keeping with the claim of its own name, translating to “music factory”, Ensemble Musikfabrik is particularly interested in commissioning and producing new works. The results of this activity, often carried out in close cooperation with the composers, are presented by the Cologne-based international soloist ensemble in numerous concerts in Germany and abroad, at festivals, in the self-organized concert series “Musikfabrik im WDR” and “Montagskonzerte” (often with live broadcasts) and in audio and video productions. WERGO released the CD series “Edition Musikfabrik” with cover pictures by Gerhard Richter, which the painter selected for the CDs. His own label Musikfabrik was founded in 2014.

The exploration of experimental forms of expression in the field of music and performance is a central concern of the musicians. Interdisciplinary projects involving live electronics, dance, theater, live video and visual art expand the conventional form of the conducted ensemble concert. Thanks to its exceptional profile and outstanding artistic quality, Ensemble Musikfabrik is a sought-after partner of leading conductors and composers worldwide.

Since 2013, the ensemble has had a completely reconstructed set of Harry Partch’s instruments at its disposal. Under the title PITCH 43_TUNING THE COSMOS, many compositions have since been created especially for or with these instruments. In addition, the instruments of its brass players, equipped with double funnels, are another outstanding feature of the ensemble’s love of experimentation.

Ensemble Musikfabrik has set itself the task of promoting the younger generation of performers and composers. Central initiatives are “Studio Musikfabrik” (youth ensemble for new music of the Landesmusikrat NRW) and “Adventure”, which has been developing projects by composition students in collaboration with the Cologne University of Music and Dance since 2019 and presents them in four annual concert phases. The ensemble bundles these and other educational measures under the title “Akademie Musikfabrik”.

Ensemble Musikfabrik is supported by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the city of Cologne. The ensemble is organized as a registered association; all major artistic and business decisions are made by the members. Thomas Fichter has been the artistic director since 2018.