National Auditorium of Music

In the heart of Madrid's Chamartín district stands a beacon of classical music and architectural brilliance, the National Auditorium of Music, known locally as the Auditorio Nacional de Música. This cultural gem, inaugurated on October 21, 1988, was the brainchild of the esteemed architect José María García de Paredes. It was conceived as part of the National Auditorium Plan, a visionary initiative aimed at endowing Spain with world-class musical infrastructure. Today, it serves as a premier venue for classical music concerts, housing the Spanish National Orchestra, the Spanish National Choir, the Spanish National Youth Orchestra, and the National Center for Musical Diffusion.

A Musical Haven in Chamartín

Located at 146 Príncipe de Vergara Street, the National Auditorium of Music occupies a prime spot flanked by Andrés Segovia Square to the south, Ernesto and Rodolfo Halffter Square to the north, and Suero de Quiñones Street along with the Pablo Sorozábal gardens. Its strategic location ensures easy accessibility, with the Cruz del Rayo metro station (Line 9) and bus lines 52 and 29 offering convenient public transport options.

Architectural Grandeur and Facilities

The National Auditorium of Music is a marvel of modern architecture, characterized by its clean lines and functional design. The building houses two main concert halls: the Symphony Hall and the Chamber Hall, with seating capacities of 2,324 and 692 respectively. These halls are designed to host up to six concerts daily, with morning sessions dedicated to schools and evening sessions catering to the general public. In addition to these, there is a General Choir Hall, an alternative space with a capacity for 208 spectators.

The facility is well-equipped to support a vibrant and continuous programming schedule. It boasts a range of amenities including a conference room, four string rehearsal rooms for choir and chamber groups, 14 individual practice rooms for musicians, a recording booth frequently used by RNE Radio Clásica, a press room, and several dining options. Visitors can enjoy refreshments at four public cafeterias and one staff cafeteria, all operated under contract. There is also a gift shop located at the north entrance, offering a variety of music-related souvenirs.

Majestic Organs

One of the most striking features of the National Auditorium of Music is its two magnificent organs, each located in one of the main halls. The Symphony Hall houses a grand organ with four keyboards, crafted by the German organ builder Gerhard Grenzing in collaboration with the British architect Simon Platt. The Chamber Hall boasts a two-keyboard organ created by the renowned Catalan organ builder Gabriel Blancafort in 1990. These instruments add a rich, resonant dimension to the musical performances, enhancing the auditory experience for both performers and audiences alike.

A Hub for Concert Cycles

The National Auditorium of Music is not just a home for the Spanish National Orchestra and Choir; it also serves as a venue for various other prestigious ensembles and concert cycles. The Madrid Community Orchestra and Choir, the Madrid Symphony Orchestra, and several university-affiliated music groups frequently grace its stages. The auditorium hosts a diverse range of concert cycles, including those organized by the National Center for Musical Diffusion, Ibermúsica, the Autonomous University of Madrid, Complutense University of Madrid, Promoconcert, the Spanish Classical Music Foundation, and the Spanish Youth Music Association.

Historical Archives

The National Auditorium of Music is also a treasure trove of musical history, housing the archives of the Spanish National Orchestra. These archives include collections from the now-defunct Madrid Philharmonic Orchestra, Pro-Música Orchestra, Madrid Chamber Orchestra, and the legacy of Pablo Rivière. Additionally, the archives of the Spanish National Choir and the Spanish National Youth Orchestra are preserved here, making the auditorium a vital repository of Spain’s rich musical heritage.

An Unmissable Cultural Experience

Whether you are a devoted classical music aficionado or a curious tourist, the National Auditorium of Music offers an unparalleled cultural experience. Its world-class facilities, exceptional acoustics, and diverse programming make it a must-visit destination in Madrid. As you step into this architectural and musical marvel, you are not just attending a concert; you are immersing yourself in a space where history, culture, and art converge to create unforgettable moments. So, the next time you find yourself in Madrid, make sure to visit the National Auditorium of Music and let the symphony of sounds transport you to a world of musical enchantment.