Amsterdam Concertgebouw

The Amsterdam Concertgebouw is mostly known simply as the The Concertgebouw. The Concertgebouw is one of the world’s most well known concert halls. It’s design creates exceptional acoustics lending to the world class performances regularly on show. 

Located opposite Museumplein in the centre of Amsterdam, the Concertgebouw has been a venue of iconic status since it opened its doors in 1888. The shows on offer at the Concertgebouw are diverse and captivate music lovers of all styles and genres. 

Visiting the Concertgebouw

In the summer months from June through to September, the Concertgebouw offers free lunchtime concerts on a Wednesday at 12:30 pm. These concerts allow the general public from all walks of life to come and embrace music free of charge!

Find out more about the shows available at the Amsterdam Concertgebouw here

The Concertgebouw has a restaurant on the premises called Restaurant LIER. The restaurant offers classical French cuisine with a contemporary twist and uses local produce. Many coming to enjoy a concert at the Concertgebouw mix a show with dinner at the restaurant so be sure to make reservations well in advance.

There is a cafe located at the Concertgebouw called Cafe Viotta. The cafe is a relaxing affair where you can enjoy a coffee or tea with a light bite. Cafe Viotta is open from 09:00 am to 20:00 pm daily.

Acoustic Excellence

Acoustics at the Amsterdam Concertgebouw are phenomenal. The acoustics are of such excellence that they are classed amongst the best in the world. It is the architectural design of the Hall’s auditorium being a shoebox shape that allows for such great sound. This mixed with the ornate decor and seating layout create the perfect reflection and absorption for unrivalled richness, clarity and resonance. The quality of the acoustics lends to a listening experience that is unforgettable.

Amsterdam Concertgebouw Performances

Not only is the Concertgebouw renowned for its shows and acoustics, it is also the home of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra was established around the time the Concertgebouw opened and has developed into one of the world’s leading symphony orchestras. Because of this, the orchestra plays regularly at the Concertgebouw, whilst also travelling the world selling out tickets globally. The orchestra plays a wide range of symphonic works from Beethoven and Stravinsky to Mahler and more. 

Not only is the Concertgebouw known for its orchestral concerts, it also offers a large and varied choice of chamber music concerts. The Chamber music concerts frequently showcase critically acclaimed soloists and orchestras from across the globe. Whether it is a string quartet or vocal recitals, and everything in between, the Concertgebouw is the perfect setting.

You will not only find traditional and classical music at the Amsterdam Concertgebouw. The Concertgebouw also opens its arms to contemporary and innovative music from all genres. The concert hall frequently showcases music from differing styles from Jazz and blues to rock and more. There are no boundaries to which the Concertgebouw will limit musical expression and the hall continues to push for musical expression and creativity to be embraced.