Schlosskonzerte Nordkirchen 2026

Nordkirchen Castle — the Westphalian Versailles

Nordkirchen Castle in the Coesfeld district (Münster administrative region) is Germany's largest moated castle — a four-winged Baroque complex from the early 18th century, built by Prince-Bishop Friedrich Christian von Plettenberg of Münster and architect Gottfried Laurenz Pictorius. With its grounds, gardens, and water features, the castle is considered the "Westphalian Versailles" and today houses the NRW School of Finance and a publicly accessible ballroom. The Schlosskonzerte Nordkirchen concert series has been held in this ballroom for decades.

2026 Season Motto: Child Prodigies of Classical Music

The 2026 concert season is under the motto "Universally Loved: Child Prodigies of Classical Music" — a thematic arc from early gifted composers to emerging performers and virtuosic ensembles who made their careers at a young age. Six concert evenings are spread from April to November and cover a broad spectrum of classical music, from chamber music and solo recitals to collaborations with the Festival Summerwinds.

The Six Concerts in Detail

April 12, 2026 (Sunday) — Burg Lüdinghausen, free admission with requested donation. Season opener with cellist Frederick Pietschmann and pianist Hyun-Jung Kim-Schweiker. May 17, 2026 — Fidolino Children's Concert "Fanny, you can do it!". A story about Felix Mendelssohn's sister Fanny, who composed herself. For children aged 4-8, admission €6. June 7, 2026 — Gelius Trio. Works by Schumann, Lili Boulanger, and Antonín Dvořák. July 5, 2026 — Albrecht Mayer (Oboe, Berlin Philharmonic) and Kimiko Imani (Piano). Collaboration with the Festival Summerwinds. September 6, 2026 — Piano Duo Walachowski. Two concert pianists, four hands. November 22, 2026 — Ensemble Spark. Season finale with the renowned crossover classical ensemble.

Nordkirchen Castle Ballroom

Most evening concerts take place in the castle's Baroque ballroom — a room with excellent acoustics, ideally proportioned for chamber music and solo recitals. Before and after the concerts, it is customary to stroll through the gardens or visit the castle restaurant. The opening concert on April 12 will exceptionally take place at Burg Lüdinghausen, another moated castle in the region.

Tickets and Reservations

Most evening concerts cost €24 (concessions €21, students €6). The Fidolino children's concert on May 17 costs €6 per person. The opening concert on April 12 is free admission with a requested donation. Reserve tickets through Nordkirchen Tourism Information: Tel. 02596 / 9179900, E-mail [email protected]. Advance booking is recommended — some concerts regularly sell out.

Getting to Nordkirchen

By car via the A 1 (Ascheberg exit) or B 58; parking available at the castle. By train: Werne or Lüdinghausen station (Dortmund-Coesfeld line), then bus line to Nordkirchen. Approximately 35 minutes by car from Münster, around 45 minutes from Dortmund.