The Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts will be hosting one of the world's greatest orchestras, The Berliner Philharmoniker on Thursday, 27 September in Halic Congress Centre. Accompanying world acclaimed Turkish soloists, cellist Efe Baltacıgil and double bassist Fora Baltacıgil, the ensemble will be performing under the baton of Sir Simon Rattle, who has been chief conductor of the Berliner Philharmoniker and artistic director of the Berlin Philharmonie since 2002.

The Berliner Philharmoniker, founded in 1882 as a self-governing body, has long been esteemed as one of the world's greatest orchestras. In 2007, it celebrated the 125th anniversary of its founding with a multitude of activities.

Hans von Bülow, Arthur Nikisch and Wilhelm Furtwängler were the principal conductors who left their distinctive mark in the Berliner Philharmoniker's early decades. In 1955 Herbert von Karajan became the orchestra's artistic director and, in the ensuing years, worked with the musicians to develop a unique tonal quality and performing style that made the Berliner Philharmoniker famous all over the world. Claudio Abbado, chief conductor from 1989 to 2002, devised a new type of programming, with increased emphasis on contemporary works, expanded chamber recital series and operas in concert performance. When Sir Simon Rattle took the orchestra's helm in September 2002, the Education programme was initiated to ensure that the Berliner Philharmoniker reaches a wider and, especially, younger audience. In November 2007, the orchestra and its artistic director Sir Simon Rattle were appointed UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors, the first artistic ensemble ever to represent the international children's organization.

The tickets for the Istanbul concert of the ensemble are available through Biletix sales channels and the main box office at İKSV (between 10:00 - 19:00 except Sundays).

The Berliner Philarmoniker
27 September, Thursday, 20.00
Halic Congress Centre