Collegium Musicum Brandenburg Christmas Concert

A Classical Evening in the Rolandsaal

The Rolandsaal in Brandenburg an der Havel's Altstädtisches Rathaus is a Gothic hall with exceptional acoustics. Every December, the Collegium Musicum Brandenburg holds its Christmas concert here, filling an important gap in the city's classical concert offerings. Under the musical direction of Bernd Heese, chamber music excellence and pre-Christmas tradition combine for an evening that appeals to both Baroque enthusiasts and families.

The 2026 Programme

The programme features excerpts from Henry Purcell's 'Dido and Aeneas'—one of the earliest English operas—Luigi Boccherini's Cello Concerto with soloist Stefan Petkovic, Edward Elgar's String Serenade, and alto arias from Bach's Christmas Oratorio with Margit Lücke. The concert concludes with the audience joining in to sing traditional Christmas carols.

Bernd Heese and the Collegium Musicum

The Collegium Musicum Brandenburg is a semi-professional chamber orchestra that has been cultivating the musical tradition of the Havel city for years. Bernd Heese leads the ensemble with a steady hand and a clear commitment to well-known, well-played repertoire. Soloists come from the region or from the Berlin-Brandenburg music scene.

Brandenburg an der Havel in Advent

Brandenburg an der Havel is a particularly atmospheric city during Advent: the Altstädtischer Markt with its medieval Roland (a 10-meter-high statue, the city's landmark), St. Catherine's Church, the historic buildings of the Old Town, and the nearby Cathedral—all within a few minutes' walk. Visitors attending the Christmas concert can easily combine the evening with a stroll to admire the Christmas lights.