The Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra (Junge Philharmonie Köln) was founded in 1972.
Its membership is mainly composed of graduates of the most important German conservatories who, upon finishing their studies, wish to experience the reality of a practical musical life playing chamber music and symphonic repertoire at a high level before furthering their careers as soloists or as members of full-time professional orchestras.
In the last 34 years the CNPO Chamber Orchestra has given more than 10.000 concerts wordlwide with different programs and varying formations.
In Germany, is has realized 25 Television Programs and made numerous recordings.
Since 1978 it has made itself well-known by its tours through most European countries, especially France, Great Britain and Spain, countries where it today enjoys the goodwill of numerous friends and admirers.

In 1989 the Director decided to assemble all participating members from past years, and create an entirely independent Symphony Orchestra.
The Cologne New Philharmonic gave its symphonic debut in the most important concert halls in Germany during January 1990 with outstanding success and without private or governmental sponsorship.
Since then both the Chamber and Symphony Orchestras of the Cologne New Philharmonic work constantly during their seasons (leaders of the symphonic group being the members of the chamber orchestra), performing nearly 250 concerts per year taking place in all parts of the world.
The Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra is, in essence, a chamber orchestra comprised of soloists, which expands several times a year to a full symphony orchestra.
The Orchestra is self-managed and is one of the few groups in Germany to operate entirely without subsidy - these days very unusual.
Since 1972 the CNPO Orchestra has enchanted countless audiences.
Its aim is to inspire people who may not necessarily have come into contact with classical music before.
With this in mind the group has, over the years, developed its own highly individual style of interpretation - engaging and direct while still remaining true to the intentions of the composer.

Another peculiarity is without doubt the cosmopolitan nature of the Orchestra. Since 1990 players from over 50 nations have found their musical home there. Communication has never been a problem - music is a language understood in all countries. For more than 16 years the Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra has been a regular guest of the Cologne Philharmonc Hall and most other important European Concert Venues, with remarkable success.
It also participates in numerous festivals, both in Germany and abroad.

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The CNPO Chamber Orchestra

The Cologne New Philharmonic Chamber Group

One of the greatest highlights was undoubtedly its collaboration with Nigel Kennedy.
The Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra accompanied this exceptional British violinist on his extensive tour of over 20 German cities, playing Vivaldi´s "Four Seasons" and his own arrangement, the "Hendrix Orchestral Suite". In late 1999 Nigel Kennedy showcased his new album "Classic Kennedy" with the Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra in Weimar, resulting in a radio broadcast together.

We are glad to welcome you as our guests today and we wish you a most rewarding musical experience with our orchestra.