Konzertsaal der UDK

In Charlottenburg, directly on Steinplatz, stands a concert hall steeped in Berlin's musical history: The UdK Berlin Concert Hall on Hardenbergstraße was home to the Berlin Philharmonic under Karajan in the 1960s and is now the vibrant heart of the Faculty of Music at one of Europe's most important art universities.
Concerts in Berlin: History you can hear
The outstanding 1950s building by Paul Baumgarten is a listed monument and represents the dawn of modernity in post-war Berlin. Those who enter the hall immediately notice that time has stood still here in a special way. There are few rooms in Berlin that have preserved the style of their time as authentically as the foyer of the concert hall. This is not nostalgic kitsch, but living architectural culture. And the sound? A variable orchestra podium with retractable steps and optimized acoustics ensures that every note sits perfectly in the room. Since 2025, a brand new Steinway D grand piano has also graced the stage: Thanks to a donation from the Stiftung am Grunewald, the Faculty of Music was able to acquire this high-quality instrument.
UdK Concert Hall: Classical music at the highest level, often free
Today, the concert hall is the vibrant center of the Faculty of Music. This is where the symphony orchestra’s rehearsal phases and concerts take place, concert examinations are completed, and competitions are held. What this means for the audience is remarkable: the concerts can almost always be attended free of charge at a high level. For example, the annual crescendo music festival is one of the highlights of Berlin’s classical music calendar. The festival musically resonates the soul in more than 20 events and is dedicated to important composers. In addition, external ensembles also perform in the hall: for example, the Ernst-Busch Choir Berlin as well as radio orchestras and choirs perform here. With more than 700 events a year, UdK Berlin contributes significantly to the city’s cultural life. Those looking for classical concerts in Berlin beyond the large concert halls will find an address here that can keep up in terms of content and does so without reservations.
Top10 Redaktion
Erfahrungsbericht vom 15.07.2026
Preisniveau
For guest events usually around 40.00 to 48.00 Euros; many university-owned concerts are free or significantly cheaper.
ÖPNV
S- and U-Bahn station Zoologischer Garten and U2 Ernst-Reuter-Platz, each a few minutes' walk away.
Parkmöglichkeiten
Parking garages around Zoologischer Garten station and Hardenbergstraße; paid parking zone.
Highlight
Traditional hall of the University of the Arts with excellent acoustics - a big stage for young talent and international guests.
Opening Hours
- Geöffnet: depending on the event










