- What: “Black Box” concert series by the Jena Philharmonic
- Theme: “Durst” (Thirst) – inspired by Max Frisch
- When: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
- Where: Kassablanca Jena
- Line-up: Trumpet group and viola
Jena (Feb 9, 2026) – It is an experiment that has since become a cherished tradition in Jena’s cultural calendar: when the musicians of the Jena Philharmonic leave their established stage at the Volkshaus and cross the tracks near Westbahnhof, a special evening is in store. Now in its sixth season, the ensemble is guest performing with its “Black Box” series at the legendary club Kassablanca.
An evening without rigid boundaries
Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the club will once again transform into a space for classical sounds, presented quite differently than in a conventional concert setting. Under the title “Durst” (Thirst), the orchestral musicians have curated a program that deliberately breaks with conventions. Instead of a frontal performance and strict etiquette, the focus at “Kassa” is on direct encounter.
The concept of the “Black Box” is to be taken literally: it is a surprise bag. Those who buy a ticket often do not know exactly what to expect. It is not just about delivering a musical performance, but about creating connections. In the intimate atmosphere of the club, far from velvet seats, a closeness develops between artists and the audience that allows for interactions hardly conceivable in a large hall.
“Thirst” for new perspectives
The focus of the upcoming evening is the Philharmonic’s trumpet group, consisting of Steffen Naumann, Aleksey Shust, Alexander Suchlich, and Steffen Hillinger, joined by Anne Schuster on the viola. The title of the program, “Durst,” is more than just a buzzword. Inspired by a question from Max Frisch’s famous “Questionnaire” – “Are you sure that the preservation of the human race, once you and all your acquaintances are no longer here, really interests you?” – the musicians explore the themes of lack, longing, and desire.
The topic is not intended to be set to music in a blatant way, but rather mirrored emotionally. The music serves as a medium to explore different facets of thirst – be it physical thirst or a thirst for life and meaning. The selection of pieces ranges from solo performances to quartets and is complemented by texts and thoughts that give the evening a narrative structure.
The club as a resonance space
The choice of venue is crucial for this format. Kassablanca, usually known for electronic beats, indie concerts, and subculture, offers a “safe space” for experiments. The lack of seating and the relaxed atmosphere lower the inhibitions many people feel toward so-called “serious” music. It is an invitation to everyone who wants to feel more free, both internally and externally, while listening to music.
For Jena’s cultural landscape, this cooperation between high culture and the club scene is an important signal. It shows that music is universal and does not have to be tied to specific spaces. When the trumpets sound in the club on Tuesday evening, the audience can look forward to seeing whether their “thirst” for culture is quenched – or whether the evening leaves them wanting more.
The concert begins on February 10 at Kassablanca. Those interested should be prepared for surprises.