Psyched to strike up that perfect symphony?
From Salzburg to Vienna (and spots in between) Austria’s got a lot of orchestra hall options. To help you find the best place for your next orchestra rehearsal or performance, we’ve selected our five favorite orchestra venues based on acoustics, history, and architecture. Read on to learn why we love them and how you can book them with Music Traveler on the road.
1. Orchesterhaus (Orchestra House): Salzburg, Austria
What better way to kick off than with a place with a literal meaning of “Orchestra House”?
Designed by architect Franz Fonatsch and located in his hometown, Orchesterhaus opened in 1991 and became known for its vibrant, local music scene.
It’s home to HEIMSPIEL (English translation: home game), a concert series where local groups like Mozarteum Orchestra showcase their talents.
The contemporary setting includes exterior art installations, cutting-edge technology, and a spacious layout
Plus, its prime location is right by Salzburg’s old town.
Ready for you and your ensemble to swing by?
2. Sychron Stage: Vienna
A combo of spaciousness and high tech ensures that orchestra performances at Sychron Stage jolts to life.
With room for up to 130 musicians, the expansive recording venue –115 m² (1,238 sq. ft.) is perfect for large orchestras and choirs.
Its intricate architectural design delivers extraordinary acoustics, particularly:
- "Room-in-room" construction with a three-meter gap around the central hall
- Even with the air conditioner running, the orchestra hall offers a ridiculously low noise floor of 16 dBA
The space is outfitted with cutting-edge technology – from Pro Tools Rigs to Source-Connect Pro – making it a paradise for sound engineers and musicians alike.
Plus, it features a Steinway, a grand piano, and a harp.
Curious about the full offering? The list gets long! Check out the full description.
3. Grosses Festspielhaus (Large Festival Hall): Salzburg
Truly, “teamwork makes the dream work,” Grosses Festspielhaus reflects the combined forces of a great architect and renowned conductor.
To make the venue, Austrian architect, Clemens Holzmeister (1886-1983) blasted away 55,000 cubic meters of rock, at the foot of Salzburg’s Mönchsberg mountain. After four years, he produced a grand venue seamlessly integrated with a dramatic mountain setting, reflecting the architect’s signature monumental design.
Inside, you can feel the influence of legendary conductor Herbert von Karajan (1908-1989) who helped fine turn to acoustics bringing perfect clarity to both the softest melodies and the grandest symphonies
Plus, the venue holds over 2,000 guests, making it one of the largest stages in the world. With this awesome backdrop and capacity, it’s no surprise that the large festival hall is considered the crown jewel of the Salzburg Festival. This global cultural event draws the finest talent in classical music each summer.
Don’t wait for the festival though, book Grosses Festspielhaus for your next orchestral practice or performance now.
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4. Mozarteum Grosser Saal (Great Hall): Salzburg
Mozarteum Grosse Saal (Great Hall), is part of the Mozarteum Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
In the heart of Salzburg’s cultural district, the venue exudes masterful design, artistry, and A++ acoustics.
Baroque architecture, including ornate chandeliers, sets the tone for orchestral concerts, solo recitals, and symphonies with seating for up to 800 guests.
The orchestra hall’s rich ambiance also caters to high-profile events beyond music including corporate gatherings and cultural galas. After all, the world can’t get enough of Mozart!
Interested in learning more about Mozart’s Great Hall?
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5. Felsenreitschule: Salzburg
Did someone say “Edelweiss?”
Captain Von Trapp certainly did, or, well sang it in Roger and Hammerstein’s acclaimed musical movie The Sound of Music).
To learn more about the venue, with the literal meaning of “rock riding school,” plus the Von Trapps check out our recent article on Felsenreitschule’s legacy.
Like Grosses Festspielhaus, Felsenreitschule is also a centerpiece for the Salzburg Festival.
However, rub shoulders with the Von Trapps today by booking it for your next orchestra performance.
Book now
Further reading
For more Music Traveler recommendations, check out other pieces including:
Or, find your next orchestral hall in Austria by searching by city:
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