In his guide to Music in Dresden, Rupert Parker Hears The Sound Of Music in Baroque Surroundings.
On a few fateful February nights in 1945, British and American bombers completely wiped out the city of Dresden. Later the Russians used this as an opportunity to lay out a new socialist city but, after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the city’s Baroque splendour began to be restored.
The rebuilding is now finished, the palaces and churches rising phoenix-like from the ashes of the firestorm of the Second World War. It’s only when you get up close, the white new stones contrasting with the blackened old, that you realise this is a marvellous conjuring trick. The Dresden Royal Palace now houses magnificent artworks of gold, silver, gems, ivory, bronze and amber and the newly restored Frauenkirche dominates the skyline.
While its baroque palaces and stunning landscapes have long been a draw for travellers, there is a hidden gem in this city that resonates just as profoundly – its rich and diverse musical scene. Dresden’s musical heritage, deeply rooted in history, lives on in the surroundings of the city’s Baroque palaces and churches. In this guide to music in Dresden I explore the city’s audio splendour.
The jewel in Dresden’s musical crown is the Semperoper, a majestic opera house that stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to the performing arts. Built in the mid-19th century by architect Gottfried Semper, the opera house has seen the premieres of numerous works by Richard Strauss and Richard Wagner, two iconic figures in the world of classical music.
In 1945, during the last months of World War II, the building was largely destroyed by bombing, leaving only the exterior shell standing. It wasn’t until exactly 40 years later, on 13 February 1985, that the opera’s reconstruction was completed. The acoustics within this architectural marvel are unparalleled, making it an ideal venue for operas, concerts, and ballets. I’m lucky to catch a performance of Swan Lake by Dresden Ballet.
Dresden’s musical soul extends beyond the walls of the Semperoper and finds a sacred resonance within its historic churches. The Frauenkirche, a symbol of the city’s resilience and reconstruction, is not only a testament to faith but also a hub for magnificent musical events. The church hosts regular concerts featuring classical compositions and organ recitals, enveloping visitors in an ethereal aura of spirituality and sound.
Similarly, the Dresden Cathedral, or Katholische Hofkirche, with its stunning baroque architecture, serves as a backdrop for various musical events. It’s here that you witness the harmonious interplay between the divine and the artistic as choirs and orchestras bring the cavernous space to life. It’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
The Kulturpalast, with its sleek design and state-of-the-art acoustics, is a symbol of Dresden’s commitment to fostering a thriving cultural scene. It’s now the permanent home of the Dresden Philharmonic. This renowned ensemble has been enchanting audiences for centuries with its transcendent performances.
The orchestra’s repertoire spans classical masterpieces to modern compositions, providing a musical journey that transcends time and genre. On a cold Sunday teatime, I hear a lively chamber performance of Gulda’s Concerto for Cello, Wind Orchestra and Band followed by a slightly more staid Serenade No.10 in B-flat Major by Mozart.
The Dresdner Residenz Orchestra presents classical concerts, gala concerts, children’s and family concerts as well as small operas in a different way in the Wallpavillon of the Dresden Zwinger Palace. The annual Dresden Music Festival, held in the Zwinger’s courtyard, attracts international musicians and music enthusiasts alike.
If your primary focus is on music, and time is limited, an easy way of getting a taster of Dresden’s greatest architectural hits is to take a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour. Taking around two hours with 22 stops, there’s a running commentary in English and you’re able to get off at any attraction that takes your fancy.
It starts with Dresden’s famous landmarks in the old city including the Baroque magnificence of the Zwinger Palace and reconstructed splendour of the Frauenkirche. It then follows the Elbe River before crossing to the other side, climbing up past Royal Palaces then descending to the Neustadt. Finally, after a quick circuit it crosses the river back to the old town – just in time for another concert.
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Visit Dresden has information about the city and this guide To Music In Dresden
Hotel Bilderberg Bellevue makes a comfortable base with stunning views, as advertised.
Restaurant Anna im Schloss serves imaginative local food inside the castle.
The Sophienkeller serves traditional dishes with minstrel accompaniment.
Ryanair flies direct to Leipzig from London Stansted, then it’s a one hour train journey.
The Bus Tour Hop-On-Hop-Off runs approximately every 30 minutes from the Zwinger Palace.
