The Laeiszhalle is one of the most significant cultural venues in Hamburg and is an architectural gem in the style of Hanseatic neo-baroque. Since its opening in 1908, it has been considered one of the most beautiful concert halls in Germany – and a place where Hanseatic history, musical tradition, and urban flair come together perfectly. Located directly at Johannes-Brahms-Platz, the Laeiszhalle combines impressive architecture with a unique atmosphere that captivates visitors immediately.

A House with History and Soul

The construction of the Laeiszhalle dates back to the Hamburg shipowner Carl Laeisz and his wife Sophie. With a testamentary endowment of a total of two million marks, they laid the foundation for a “dignified venue for noble and serious music.” The result: A state-of-the-art concert hall at the time, equipped with its own ventilation systems, a large organ, and an acoustically outstanding auditorium.

The Laeiszhalle survived World War II almost unscathed and was briefly used by the British occupation as a radio house after the war. Today, it is an integral part of Hamburg’s music scene and, together with the Elbphilharmonie, belongs to HamburgMusik gGmbH.

Architecture & Facilities

The Laeiszhalle is not only a cultural site but also an impressive building. Characteristic of Hanseatic Neobaroque, the building impresses with its magnificent facades, intricate ornaments, and representative interior spaces. Particularly impressive:

Great Hall

• 2,025 seats

• Famous acoustics, ideal for symphonic concerts

• Originally equipped with an impressive Walcker organ

Small Hall

• 640 seats

• Perfect for chamber music, solo evenings, and smaller concert formats

Studio E

• 150 seats

• A space for experimental formats and emerging artists

Brahms Foyer

• Historical, atmospheric, decorated with busts of musicians

• Location for drinks during intermissions and smaller events

The foyer features numerous busts of significant musicians, including Clara Schumann, Joseph Joachim, Gustav Mahler, Alfred Schnittke, and Ludwig van Beethoven. A true piece of music history to behold.

Music & Events

The Laeiszhalle is the home base for many Hamburg ensembles and orchestras, including:

• Symphoniker Hamburg (residential orchestra)

• Ensemble Resonanz

• NDR Choir

• Hamburger Camerata

• Philharmonisches Staatsorchester Hamburg

• Numerous choirs, amateur orchestras, and university ensembles

Whether large symphonic works, choral pieces, jazz, chamber music, or modern concert series—the program is diverse and offers culture for every taste.

Historical Walcker Organ (1908)

Once one of the most modern instruments of its time with electric action.

Beckerath Organ (1950–2021)

A neo-baroque instrument that shaped the post-war period of the Laeiszhalle.

A faithful reconstruction of the Walcker organ is currently in progress, which will soon adorn and enrich the Great Hall acoustically again.

Surroundings & Art around the Laeiszhalle

The Laeiszhalle is located in the historic Wallring, surrounded by significant buildings and green spaces. Right in front of the entrance are:

• the Johannes Brahms Square

• the distinctive Brahms Cube made of rose granite

• several sculptures, including Homage to Brahms

Opposite lies the Sievekingplatz with its imposing courthouse buildings – an exciting ensemble of history, art, and modern urban design.

The Laeiszhalle itself does not have classical daily opening hours. It always opens its doors depending on events, usually about one hour before the concert starts.

The ticket service is generally available at the following times:

• Monday–Friday: approx. 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Saturday: approx. 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

(Small deviations due to holidays or breaks in performances are possible.)

Address:
Johannes-Brahms-Platz
20355 Hamburg

Public Transport:

• U2 (Messehallen)

• U3 (Stephansplatz / St. Pauli)

• Bus lines 112, 35

• Accessible on foot from the city center

Parking:

• Parking garage "Gaensemarkt"

• Parking garage "Messehallen"

• Parking spaces in the immediate area are limited

The Laeiszhalle is much more than a concert hall – it is a vibrant piece of Hamburg's cultural history. Its impressive architecture, excellent acoustics, and diverse program make it a must-visit for music lovers and a rewarding destination for anyone visiting Hamburg. Whether it’s grand symphonies, modern music formats, or emerging talents – at the Laeiszhalle, one experiences culture in its most beautiful form.