Bolschoi Don Kosaken

The Cossacks have a long history. The term “Cossack“ comes from the Tatar language and means “free man.“ In the 16th century, the Cossacks settled from the steppes along the Dnieper, Dniester, Don, and Volga rivers in present-day Ukraine and Russia. They were gifted farmers, excellent horsemen, and deeply religious people. They expressed their passion for life in songs, especially choral singing. Cossack singing could be heard in all situations—at religious masses, private celebrations, or even in preparation for battle.

After the October Revolution of 1917, many Cossacks emigrated to the West, including the conductor Sergei Jaroff, who founded a men's choir in a camp in Turkey. The songs, full of longing and misery, but also full of hope, were the only thing the men had brought with them from their homeland.

The current director of the Bolshoi (German: “great“) Don Cossacks, Professor Petja Houdjakov, now ninety years old, has succeeded in further developing the tradition of Cossack singing, which consists of deep basses (basso profundo) and high tenor voices (falsetto), and transforming it into a mystical sound experience.

For 45 years, the Bolshoi Don Cossacks' concert, featuring sacred Russian, Ukrainian, and international songs, has been an integral part of the pre-Christmas season in Vienna, putting audiences in the mood for Christmas.

Place

Wiener Konzerthaus – A Temple of Music and Culture

The Wiener Konzerthaus is one of Europe's most prestigious concert venues and a cornerstone of Vienna’s vibrant musical scene. Since its opening in 1913, it has stood for musical excellence, stylistic diversity, and artistic innovation. With four magnificent halls – the Great Hall, Mozart Hall, Schubert Hall, and Berio Hall – the Konzerthaus offers exceptional acoustics and accommodates up to 1,865 guests.

From classical music and opera to jazz, world music, and contemporary compositions, the Wiener Konzerthaus is renowned for its diverse programming, featuring both international stars and emerging talents. Alongside the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, world-class orchestras, soloists, and ensembles grace its stage, making it an essential destination for music lovers.

Getting There by Public Transport

The Wiener Konzerthaus is centrally located in the 3rd district and easily accessible by public transport:

Subway:

• U4 Stadtpark station – about a 5-minute walk
• U3/U4 Landstraße (Wien Mitte) station – about a 10-minute walk

Tram:

• Lines 2, 71, D (stop Schwarzenbergplatz) – about a 3-minute walk

Bus:

• Line 4A (stop Schwarzenbergplatz)

Train:

• Wien Mitte/Landstraße (connection to CAT, S-Bahn, and subway) – about a 10-minute walk

With its excellent transport connections, the Wiener Konzerthaus is easily reachable for both locals and international visitors.
Wiener Konzerthaus – A World-Class Musical Experience.

As one of Vienna’s most important cultural institutions, the Wiener Konzerthaus seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering unforgettable concerts in one of the world’s most beautiful concert halls.