explore_händel at Zeiss-Großplanetarium Berlin

explore_händel is the second of five programs being brought back to the stage as part of the 10 Years of Stegreif celebration, and it is the most intimate encounter with the orchestra.

A chamber music ensemble returns to the essence of Stegreif’s musical vision and creates a creative fusion of Baroque and Jazz with explore_händel. The unique concert space of the Planetarium sets the perfect atmosphere for the intimate meeting between orchestra and audience. In this creative concert performance, improvisation is celebrated as the connecting element between the two musical eras of Baroque and Jazz. Under the direction of Alistair Duncan, a dynamic interplay unfolds, making Handel’s works – from the Concerto Grosso to the famous "Aria Lascia ch'io pianga" – shine in a new light.

The revival for the 10th anniversary is a moment of reflection for Stegreif and a return to the roots of the ensemble. While Stegreif has primarily been known for its expansive, large-scale concepts, explore_händel represents a personal deepening of musical quality and the art of intricate ensemble playing.

The specially curated cinematic projections on the dome of the Planetarium capture both the intimate improvised moments and the musical fireworks. Images of natural events and the unfathomable vastness of the universe focus attention on the immediate presence of the music, where every experience of fragility and loss, as well as connection and resilience, can be expressed.

We warmly invite you to share this intimate encounter with us and celebrate our anniversary!

To mark our 10th anniversary as an ensemble, we are hosting a concert series with a total of 10 concerts in Berlin. More information about the anniversary and additional dates can be found HERE.

Bild: Navina Neuschl