Kultursommer Schloss Schwöbber

Five Years of Open-Air Culture in the Weserbergland

Kultursommer Schloss Schwöbber was initiated in 2022 by the Landschaftsverband Hameln-Pyrmont e.V. The goal was to establish a high-quality open-air format that makes musical diversity from classical, jazz, and pop tangible in a historic setting. With its fifth edition in 2026, the festival has become a fixture in Lower Saxony's summer cultural calendar. The resonance extends far beyond the Weserbergland region – visitors come from Hannover, Bielefeld, Kassel, and Bremen.

Thursday, 20.08.: Swing with the Ellingtones

The opening is a homage to the big band era. The Ellingtones, a German ensemble dedicated to the repertoire of Duke Ellington and his contemporaries, perform together with jazz singer Sonja Bittner. The program promises swing standards, ballads, and some original arrangements. The concert evening begins at dusk in the illuminated courtyard.

Friday, 21.08.: Opera re:told — Carmen, World Premiere

The second evening is dedicated to classical music. With Opera re:told — Carmen, the festival presents a new interpretation of Georges Bizet's Carmen. The concept combines selected arias and ensembles from the opera with narrative elements and a reduced cast. The production was developed specifically for the Schlosshotel Münchhausen and celebrates its world premiere here.

Saturday, 22.08.: Jazz with Matti Klein and Max Mutzke

The third evening forms the highlight. The Matti Klein Soul Trio from Berlin performs together with the German singer Max Mutzke. Max Mutzke, known since his Eurovision appearance in 2004 and established since then as a versatile soul, jazz, and pop artist, brings his current program. An evening full of soulful grooves, personal songs, and heartfelt ballads.

Schloss Schwöbber — Renaissance Jewel

Schloss Schwöbber was built at the end of the 16th century and is considered one of the most important Renaissance castles in the Weserbergland. Since the 1990s, the estate has housed the renowned Schlosshotel Münchhausen. The central courtyard, framed by sandstone facades and towers, is excellently suited for open-air events. The evening illumination lends each concert a special aura.

Organization by the Landschaftsverband

The Landschaftsverband Hameln-Pyrmont e.V. has been a patron of cultural initiatives in the region for decades. Their activities range from summer festivals and castle concerts to exhibitions. Kultursommer Schloss Schwöbber is one of its flagship events, supported by sponsors, patrons, and a dedicated team of volunteers.