Blechschaden

Body Damage

’s Festive Christmas Concert Special Guest: Ben Stümke (trumpet)

PROGRAM
Festive and contemplative works from around the world

For over four decades, the cult ensemble “Blechschaden” has been creating a lively atmosphere, earning frenetic applause, and delivering unforgettable concert evenings worldwide. Blechschaden is the self-proclaimed “fun squad” of the Munich Philharmonic, led by its witty and lively founder, Bob Ross. With virtuosity, humor, and boundless enthusiasm, they transform every concert into a musical spectacle.

Since their founding in 1984, the twelve instrumental virtuosos have been pulling out all the stops with their brass instruments. Whether pop or opera, musicals or classical symphonies—with Blechschaden, every kind of music becomes a delight. These philharmonic “foreign legionnaires” blend completely different musical genres into a highly entertaining cocktail of melodies, garnished with lighthearted and lively commentary and interludes. Between pieces, their Scottish conductor Bob Ross, in particular, proves that not only the baton but also the microphone is in excellent hands when he holds it, drawing generously from his well of humor. The Münchner Merkur sums it up perfectly: “Blechschaden means the perfect dissolution of all boundaries between serious and popular music.”

On Pro Arte, the Echo Klassik award winners present some of the most popular Christmas hits of the past decades. But even though contemplative Christmas melodies set the tone, they always perform with a twinkle in their eye. “Blechschaden” focuses on variation, unconventional interpretations, entertainment and fun, full-throttle energy, and velvety sentimentality. As a special guest, the young trumpeter Ben Stümke—with his impressive musicality and fresh talent—provides a special highlight of the evening.