Reflektor Brad Mehldau

Reflektor – the Elbphilharmonie format

The Elbphilharmonie Hamburg's "Reflektor" series is more than just an artist portrait. Over several days, an invited personality designs their own festival program – with solo concerts, encounters with ensembles, crossover formats, and often reflections in the form of readings or workshops. Past Reflektor artists include Anne-Sophie Mutter, Patricia Kopatchinskaja, and Avi Avital.

Brad Mehldau – a pianist between worlds

In 2026, Brad Mehldau is the Reflektor curator. The American jazz pianist has been considered one of the most original voices of his instrument since the 1990s – not just in jazz. His discography ranges from acoustic trio recordings and solo recitals to crossover projects (e.g., with Anne Sofie von Otter) and classical piano concertos under his own name. His passion for genre-spanning work – "from Bach to the Beatles" – perfectly matches the Elbphilharmonie's ambition.

2026 Program – Six Events in Five Days

• Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 7:30 PM, Small Hall: Reading "Formation"
• Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 6:30 PM, Small Hall: Masterclass with students from the HfMT Hamburg
• Thursday, March 12, 2026, 8:00 PM, Grand Hall: Brad Mehldau with the Hamburger Camerata, Conductor Clark Rundell – "Variations on a Melancholy Theme" and "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra"
• Friday, March 13, 2026, 8:00 PM, Grand Hall: Solo Recital
• Saturday, March 14, 2026, 8:00 PM, Grand Hall: Brad Mehldau with the hr-Bigband
• Sunday, March 15, 2026, 8:00 PM, Grand Hall: Duo Brad Mehldau & Christian McBride (Double Bass)

The Sound of the Elbphilharmonie

The venue for the four main concerts is the Grand Hall of the Elbphilharmonie in HafenCity – Hamburg's landmark and, since its opening in 2017, one of the world's most acoustically outstanding concert halls. The accompanying events for the series (reading, masterclass) take place in the smaller Recital Hall. Both halls offer the intimate concert atmosphere that suits the Reflektor format.

Tickets from 15 Euros

Tickets are available from 15 Euros in advance from the Elbphilharmonie. The reading on March 10 and the masterclass on March 11 are priced more affordably as accompanying programs. Festival passes for multiple concerts are available.