Skip to main content.
The image shows the lettering "Berner Kammerorchester" in a simple, clear black font on a white background. It is a simple, typographic design that is used as a logo.
The picture shows a group of musicians, the members of the Bern Chamber Orchestra. They are dressed in festive black clothing and surrounded by musical instruments and music stands, positioned behind an open red curtain. The atmosphere is convivial and expectant, as if they are about to begin a concert.

Bern Chamber Orchestra (BKO)

Since 1938 the Bern Chamber Orchestra (BKO) has performed its moving music for more than 150,000 people, including appearances with soloists such as Yehudi Menuhin or Clara Haskill.


Useful information

  • City of Bern
  • Music and live performances
  • Kultur-GA
  • KulturLegi
  • Art & culture

As a professional chamber orchestra, the Bern Chamber Orchestra is aware of the tradition it represents, performing both well-known and unknown works from the Baroque to the Modern, contemporary pieces and commissioning original compositions.

In addition to its standard chamber orchestra repertoire, the BKO continuously explores and develops new formats—such as collaborations with dance or special projects involving youth choirs—and offers young musicians opportunities to perform.

Since 2024, the Bern Chamber Orchestra has been artistically guided by two internationally active conductors who are both deeply rooted in the Canton and the city of Bern. Joining Philippe Bach, born and raised in Saanen (BE) and principal conductor from 2012 to 2023, is Kaspar Zehnder, a native of Riggisberg and current resident of Bern.

Looking ahead, the Bern Chamber Orchestra aims to take advantage of its flexible size to expand its presence throughout the entire canton and beyond the region.


Location

Gurzelenstrasse 5
2502 Biel/Bienne

Open Google Maps