About Ensemble Modern
Ensemble Modern is a contemporary music ensemble based in Frankfurt am Main since 1985. Founded in 1980 by musicians from the Junge Deutsche Philharmonie, it has 18 to 19 international soloists who collectively shape its artistic direction. The ensemble has no chief conductor; its soloists make artistic decisions together, fostering experimentation and collaboration (Ensemble Modern – About Us).
Its repertoire ranges from contemporary orchestral and chamber works to music theatre, dance, and multimedia collaborations. The ensemble works with composers including John Adams, Steve Reich, György Ligeti, and Frank Zappa (Ensemble Modern – About Us; Oper Frankfurt – Ensemble Modern).
History
Ensemble Modern was founded in 1980 and has been based in Frankfurt am Main since 1985. Its International Ensemble Modern Academy (IEMA), which offers workshops, masterclasses, and seminars for emerging musicians and composers, was founded in 2003. In 2024, Ensemble Modern received the Silver Lion of the Biennale Musica di Venezia.
The Alte Oper Frankfurt was inaugurated in 1880. Designed by architect Richard Lucae, the building is known for its neo-Renaissance architecture and exceptional acoustics. Rebuilt after World War II, it combines historic grandeur with modern amenities and stands as a symbol of Frankfurt’s cultural heritage and resilience (Alte Oper Frankfurt Official Website).
The Ensemble Modern building in the Gallus district is described as a model of adaptive reuse, transforming an industrial site into a contemporary hub for music and community engagement. Its design emphasizes openness, flexibility, and creative collaboration.
What to See and Experience
Ensemble Modern performs around 70 new works each year, including approximately 20 world premieres, many commissioned by the ensemble itself. Its programming also includes around 100 concerts annually, including 20 world premieres. Concerts range from chamber and orchestral performances to interdisciplinary projects and special series.
Programming highlights include:
- World premieres and composer portraits New works and in-depth explorations of prominent composers.
- Subscription series at the Alte Oper Frankfurt Guest conductors, soloists, and innovative repertoire (hr2 – Konzertsaal).
- Happy New Ears Interactive concerts, workshops, and live discussions, often in collaboration with the Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts (Ensemble Modern – Happy New Ears; Ensemble Modern – Kalender).
- cresc... Biennial A festival for current music co-hosted by Ensemble Modern (Concerti – Ensemble Modern).
Performances are known for their adventurous spirit and inclusive atmosphere, attracting both experienced listeners and newcomers. Depending on the event, they may include multimedia, dance, or theatre, as well as pre- or post-concert talks, composer Q&As, and audience discussions.
The Alte Oper Frankfurt is the ensemble’s primary venue and hosts most of its concerts. Other venues include Frankfurt LAB, an interdisciplinary venue; the Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Frankfurt (HfMDK), which hosts workshops and informal concerts; and the Jüdisches Museum and Haus der DEA, which host educational and community events.
The Ensemble Modern building has expansive glass façades, acoustically optimized interiors, and flexible performance spaces. It hosts concerts by Ensemble Modern and guests, as well as public workshops and open rehearsals. The Alte Oper’s grand entrance hall and auditorium are notable photo spots.
The Ensemble Modern website features high-resolution images, performance videos, and virtual tours. Social media channels offer behind-the-scenes content and live event streams. The Alte Oper also has digital galleries.
Visiting Information
Hours and Tickets
Most Ensemble Modern concerts at the Alte Oper begin in the evening, typically around 7:30 PM, with doors generally opening one hour before the performance. Current schedules, ticket prices, and booking options are available from the Ensemble Modern website and the Alte Oper Frankfurt box office. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or in person; authorized outlets are also available. Student, senior, and group discounts are frequently offered. Advance booking is advised.
Some Happy New Ears events offer free or discounted entry.
The Alte Oper building is open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, and until the end of evening events. Guided tours are offered on selected days, with advance booking recommended. Alte Oper ticket prices range from €15–€80, with various discounts. Tickets are available through the Alte Oper official website or at the box office.
The stated opening hours for the Ensemble Modern building are Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, and Saturday, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM; it is closed Sundays, except for special events. Its concerts and events can be booked online or at the box office, with student and senior discounts.
Hours at Frankfurt LAB depend on the event; check the Ensemble Modern calendar. HfMDK workshops and informal concerts are often free or affordable.
Guided Tours and Accessibility
Regular guided tours of Ensemble Modern rehearsal spaces are not standard, but special backstage or educational tours may be arranged through IEMA or by request. Guided tours of the Ensemble Modern building are available on weekends or by appointment. Public visits and guided tours of the Alte Oper are available during the day.
The main venues are wheelchair accessible and provide accommodations for visitors with disabilities. The Alte Oper has step-free entrances, elevators, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair seating, which should be reserved in advance. It also provides assisted listening devices and clear bilingual signage. Disabled parking is available at the Alte Oper. Assistance for special requirements can be arranged; advance notice is recommended.
Educational Opportunities
IEMA offers workshops, masterclasses, and seminars for emerging musicians. Many public events and educational concerts are open to visitors; details are available on the Ensemble Modern website.
Tips
- Frankfurt’s U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses connect the venues. The Alte Oper is served by U6 and U7; the Ensemble Modern building is accessible via tram lines 11 and 21.
- Parking is limited at the venues, and public transport is recommended, especially during events. The Ensemble Modern building has limited on-site parking, with public garages nearby.
- The area around the Ensemble Modern building has numerous cafés and restaurants.
- Book tickets in advance, use public transport, and check the Ensemble Modern website for current schedules and information.
- The Audiala app is suggested as a personalized guide to Frankfurt’s cultural offerings.
Nearby Places
Attractions within easy reach of Ensemble Modern’s venues include Museumsufer, Römer square, Main Tower, and the Zeil shopping district. Palmengarten is close to the Alte Oper. The Museum für Moderne Kunst and Main Tower are within walking distance of the Ensemble Modern building.
Related cultural sites include Alte Oper Frankfurt, Frankfurt Museum Embankment (Museumsufer), and Frankfurt Opera.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can I buy tickets for Ensemble Modern performances?
A: Tickets are available on the Ensemble Modern website, at the Alte Oper box office, and through authorized outlets.
Q: Are the venues accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes. The major venues, including the Alte Oper and Ensemble Modern building, are accessible and provide accommodations.
Q: Are there any free or discounted concerts?
A: Some events, especially in the Happy New Ears series, offer free or discounted entry.
Q: Can I visit the Alte Oper without attending a concert?
A: Yes. Public visits and guided tours are available during the day.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography is permitted in public areas but restricted during performances.