Schinkel's 1821 Konzerthaus building had first opened in 1776 as the Französische Komödienhaus (French Comedy Theatre). Known as "Schauspielhaus" since the 19th century, the Konzerthaus is of the three spectacular buildings on Gendarmenmarkt - the harmonious ensemble including the German and French Dome. The Konzerthaus is revered as a treasure of German neoclassical architecture.

Berlin's National Theatre, designed by Karl Gotthard Langhans had burned down and the building designed by Schinkel (1818-21) for Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III was intended to replace it. Schinkel added a staircase of grandiose proportions to reach the portico and integrated features of the original building spared by the fire such as the columns and outside walls. The innovative design replaced the traditional Baroque higher stage with a lower, broader proscenium, an arch separating the stage from the auditorium.

Some of the great musical events that took place here include premieres of ETA Hoffmann's Opera "Undine", in 1816, Weber's "Der Freischütz", and Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. Wagner conducted his "Fliegender Holländer" (The Flying Dutchman) here.

Severly damaged during WWII, the Konzerthaus reopened as late as 1984, following restoration as a concert hall. The Berlin Symphony Orchestra performed the inauguration gala concert on October 1, 1984 and the opening ceremony of Berlin's 750th anniversary. On Christmas day 1989, Leonard Bernstein conducted Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 with its famous Ode to Freedom accompanied by an international orchestra and choir. The Berlin Symphony orchestra was renamed Konzerthausorchester in 2006.

With a varied and exciting programme, the Konzerthaus hosts over 550 events which take place in the four halls – the Great Hall, the Small Hall, Werner Otto Hall and Musikclub with over 100 concerts per season. The Jehmlich organ, located in the Great Hall, is another highlight. With its 74 registers it is known for its different tone colours and broad range from baroque to modern music.