Cologne’s chamber ensemble for classics

FANS of Offenbach, Albinoni, Mozart, Vivaldi and Bach will hear music to their ears in St Mary’s Cathedral in late August. The Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra, or more accurately, members of the CNPO, attend to Limerick on an annual basis as part of a Summer tour. This year their visit falls on Thursday August 27 and as before, St Mary’s Cathedral is the charming host for their soaring notes.

Founded in 1972, it harbours musicians from all over the world and is far from being a German monolith in its make up or choices of programme.

CNPO is self-managed and one of few groups in Germany to operate entirely without subsidy. Its aim is to inspire people who may not necessarily have come into contact with classical music before. With this in mind the orchestra has, over the years, developed its individual style of interpretation – “engaging and direct while still remaining true to the intentions of the composer”.

The Limerick programme is comprised of classic favourites such as Bach’s Concerto in C Major for Oboe d’amore and Offenbach’s Tears of Jacqueline, for violoncello and Strings. Buy your ticket at Empire Music at 118 O’Connell Street or at the cathedral door.