A Special Kind of Instrumental Shepherd's Music

This year’s theme, ‘Schäferstündchen’, draws the eye and the ear to the pastoral utopian worlds of the 18th century.

The aristocracy’s longing for a carefree life in harmony with nature is reflected both in the porcelain figurines and in the music, the lyrics and the choice of musical instruments.

On 14 November 2026, the ensemble ‘Salicornia’ (Gerold Jensen, Katja Kanowski and Michael Mages) will perform on some very special musical instruments, including the uilleann pipes and the nyckelharpa. These are quite similar to the bagpipes and hurdy-gurdy, which can be seen in miniature form on the porcelain and faience figurines and were very popular in the 18th century. Their distinctive timbres harmonised with pastoral scenes, whether staged in the salon, on the opera stage or outdoors.

• Hosted by Dr Claudia Kanowski (KGM), in conversation with the musicians and Dr Benedikt Brilmayer (MIM)

• Registration recommended at: c.kanowski@smb.spk-berlin.de
• Participation is free with a valid museum ticket