WDR Funkhausorchester

Established as a German ensemble, the WDR Funkhausorchester specializes in light-music and pops programming while maintaining educational outreach initiatives and regular radio transmissions. The group regularly joins forces with guest soloists from abroad and takes part in cross-disciplinary projects spanning film, theater, and comedy. Founded in 1947 under the name Kölner Rundfunkorchester, it began under the direction of conductor Hermann Hagestedt. Its home stages include the Kölner Philharmonie and Funkhaus Wallrafplatz, yet it also appears at the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, Alte Oper Frankfurt, and Concertgebouw Amsterdam. Aiming to reach the widest possible public, the orchestra offers the standard symphonic canon alongside film scores, new compositions, and crossover styles. Wayne Marshall held the post of chief conductor between 2014 and 2020; Frank Strobel assumed the role upon his appointment in 2021. Enrico Delamboye serves alongside as principal guest conductor. Among its most recent artistic partners are Jonas Kaufmann, Eckart von Hirschhausen, and the Manhattan Transfer. The ensemble is featured on the 2020 live recording Born to Play Gershwin as well as the 2023 album Nino Rota: War and Peace; Catel de Monte; Orchestra Rehearsal; Harp Concerto; Concerto for strings, led by Felix Bender and Michael Seal.