Ensemble Musikfabrik

Since its foundation in 1990, the Ensemble Musikfabrik (Landesensemble NRW) has been one of the world’s leading ensembles for contemporary music. True to its name, the ensemble is particularly committed to commissioning and producing new works. The Cologne-based international ensemble of soloists presents the results of this close collaboration with composers in numerous concerts at home and abroad, at festivals, in its own concert series “Musikfabrik im WDR” and “Montagskonzerte”, as well as in audio and video productions. WERGO released the CD series “Edition Musikfabrik” with cover art by Gerhard Richter, which the painter selected for the CDs. In 2014, the ensemble also founded its own label, Musikfabrik.

Exploring experimental forms of expression is a central concern for the musicians. Interdisciplinary projects involving live electronics, dance, theatre, live video and visual art expand the scope of the classical ensemble concert. Thanks to its extraordinary profile and its artistic quality, the Ensemble Musikfabrik is a globally sought-after partner for leading conductors and composers.

Since 2013, the ensemble owns a completely reconstructed set of Harry Partch’s instruments. Under the title PITCH 43_TUNING THE COSMOS, many compositions have since been created specifically for or with these instruments. The brass instruments fitted with double bells also bear witness to the ensemble’s particular enthusiasm for experimentation.

Another key focus is the promotion of the younger generation of performers and composers. Important initiatives include “Studio Musikfabrik” (the youth ensemble for new music of the Landesmusikrat NRW) and “Adventure”, which, since 2019, in cooperation with the Cologne University of Music and Dance, has presented projects by composition students annually across several stages of development and performance. Since 2025, the Cologne Chaos Orchestra has been inviting everyone, regardless of their musical background, to take part in collective, experimental music-making. The ensemble brings these and other educational activities together under the umbrella of the “Akademie Musikfabrik”.

Ensemble Musikfabrik is supported by the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and the City of Cologne. Organised as a registered association, all key artistic and business decisions are made by the members.

As of 2026, Gregor Hotz is the director (in German: Intendant).

Foto: © Janet Sinica