The ensemble Concentus Musicus Wien was founded by Nikolaus Harnoncourt and several like-minded musicians in 1953 with the aim to create a new understanding of Early Music through a vivid and scientifically substantiated interpretation.

The members of the Concentus Musicus Wien are playing on historical instruments.

In 1957, the ensemble had its first performances in Vienna and at the Eggenberger Schlosskonzerte in Graz.

Subsequently, they held concert series in the Palais Schwarzenberg for several years.

The extensive repertoire of Early Music acquired during this time formed the basis of many future concert tours and recordings.

Since then, the ensemble successfully toured in almost all European countries, in the United States, as well in Japan and Australia.

The ensemble won worldwide recognition for its numerous LP recordings - especially regarding music from the period of 1400 to ca 1800 - many of which have been awarded international prizes.

In particular, this included the recordings of the complete cantatas by Johann Sebastian Bach, the oratorios of Bach and Handel, as well as operas, symphonies and sacred works by Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven.

The pioneer work of the Concentus Musicus Wien deeply influenced today’s understanding of Early Music. Since the retirement and death of Nikolaus Harnoncourt Stefan Gottfried is conducting the ensemble.