Philharmonie Festiva

**Philharmonie Festiva** is a dynamic German orchestra that’s carved out a niche as a Bruckner powerhouse, specializing in live performances of the composer’s sprawling symphonies. Led by conductor Gerd Schaller, the ensemble is closely tied to the Ebrach Summer of Music festival, where they’ve performed since 2006 in the awe-inspiring acoustics of the former Cistercian Abbey Church in Ebrach. Their recordings—often captured during these historic concerts—showcase Bruckner’s works in their raw, unfiltered glory, emphasizing the revisions and alternate versions that reflect his relentless tinkering (like the 1890 Symphony No. 8 or the 1874 “Romantic” Symphony No. 4). With a knack for balancing grandeur and detail, they bring a lived-in authenticity to these monumental works, making listeners feel like they’re right there in the echoing vaults of Ebrach.

Genres

Requiem

Orchestral

Folk

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Chamber Music

Opera

Romantic Music

Symphonic Music

Latest Release

Symphony No. 8 in C Minor (Version 1890) - I. Allegro moderato

Anton Bruckner•

Gerd Schaller•

Philharmonie Festiva

Single - Released September 19, 2025