The Württemberg Chamber Orchestra Heilbronn is regarded as one of Germany’s most significant chamber ensembles, blending regional roots with international appeal. Established in 1960 by Jörg Faerber, the orchestra has gradually broadened its aesthetic scope under the baton of conductors such as Ruben Gazarian, Case Scaglione, and, since 2024, Risto Joost, establishing itself as a critically acclaimed interpreter of both classical and contemporary works. The WKO is known for its blend of chamber music transparency and orchestral sonority. Regular collaborations with soloists such as Rudolf Buchbinder, Gautier Capuçon, Sabine Meyer, Frank-Peter Zimmermann, and Arabella Steinbacher, as well as guest performances in major concert halls including the Concertgebouw Amsterdam and the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, underscore its standing in the European musical landscape. The WKO also provides a wide range of music education initiatives. The portfolio is complemented by numerous CD recordings, many of which have received awards, including the CD with works by Frank Martin, which was recently honoured with the German Record Critics’ Prize 2025.
