Fire breaks out at Berlin Philharmonic building

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
A fire broke out Tuesday at the home of the Berlin Philharmonic, sending thick smoke pouring from the crest of the iconic downtown building as firefighters and musicians rushed to save instruments. The blaze broke out beneath the roof of the building directly over the main concert hall, which seats 2,500. The cause was not immediately clear, said Marco Trenn, a spokesman for Berlin firefighters. "We don't believe anyone is in danger, as the fire appears to be contained to the roof," Trenn said. Some 120 firefighters had been rushed to the scene, some of whom were trying to get all of the instruments inside the building to safety, Trenn said. The Philharmonic, the German capital's leading orchestra, is directed by Sir Simon Rattle. Other concerts also take place in the building's foyer. A lunchtime performance was just letting out as the alarm sounded.