Musical Director: Volker Hartung
 Volker Hartung assumed the position of chief conductor of the Cologne New Philharmonic Orchestra in 1986. He was trained in the tradition of German symphony orchestras and opera. Under the influence of the conductors Evgeny Mravinsky and Sergiu Celibidache, Hartung developed a special understanding of the French, German and Slavic musical traditions..
He was particular impressed by Arturo Toscanini and his influence on the American musical scene. The atmosphere and professionalism of musical training there was taken by Hartung as model for linking the spirituality of European music with the direct, Dionysian and Apollonian discipline and faithfulness of the American musical approach.
Unlike many young conductors whose training was solely academic, Hartung has been active in all areas of music. In his early years he was a solo viola player and chamber musician in professional circles. He then proved his ability as a conductor, artistic director, and orchestra manager. As a result, he has at his disposal an extensive repertoire that is continually growing and that he passes on to his musicians in intense rehearsals. In place of the widespread tendency towards specialisation, Hartung offers his musicians a comprehensive musical programme. In addition to the historical, dramatic and symphonic traditions of western music, Hartung also devotes his energy to musical theatre and audiovisual media.
Inspired by his education in film studies in California, he is especially interested in interdisciplinary cultural cooperation. This includes not least film screenings with live performances of original film music, symphony programmes featuring the music of great film and entertainment composers, and ambitious multi-media projects.
 »Volker Hartung is one of the most interesting conductors activ today. His unmistakeable conducting style and his excellent rapport with musicians and soloists are the reasons why he enjoys great popularity in orchestras at home and abroad.«
(Vienna Abendblatt)
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