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Conductor, comedian & BBC broadcaster

Rainer Hersch

Join Rainer Hersch, conductor, comedian, and BBC broadcaster, as he strikes the perfect chord between music and laughter. Known for transforming classical performance into comedy gold, Rainer offers a joyful take on leadership, creativity, and the power of harmony, delivering acclaimed programmes across thirty countries including performances at Festival Hall London.

Trusted by Direct Marketing Association, BBC, Philharmonia Orchestra, St Petersburg Philharmonic

Rainer Hersch, Comedian | Conductor & Motivator
Rainer Hersch

Rainer Hersch

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£6–10k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£6–10k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Rainer Hersch's biography

At a glance

  • Internationally acclaimed conductor blending classical music with comedy
  • Founder and leader of The Rainer Hersch Orkestra
  • BBC writer and broadcaster with extensive international credits
Rainer Hersch is a British-German conductor, comedian, and broadcaster whose unique blend of music and humour has entertained audiences across more than thirty countries. Whether on stage with his orchestra or performing solo, he brings a fresh, witty perspective to the world of classical music, proving that high culture can also make you laugh out loud. Rainer’s career began in the concert halls of London before taking an unexpected turn toward comedy. Thirteen successful appearances at the Edinburgh Festival and numerous international tours later, he has built a reputation as one of the most original performers in musical comedy. His celebrated productions, including All Classical Music Explained and Rainer Hersch’s Victor Borge, have delighted audiences in venues from the Festival Hall in London to the Konzerthaus Berlin. A classically trained conductor, Rainer has worked with orchestras worldwide, from the Philharmonia Orchestra in the UK to the St Petersburg Philharmonic. As a writer and presenter for the BBC, he has created and fronted numerous radio and television programmes, earning acclaim for his intelligent humour and engaging style. Beyond the stage, his corporate sessions such as The Conductor as Leader and orchestral team-building experiences translate musical collaboration into powerful lessons in leadership, communication, and trust. Entertaining yet insightful, Rainer’s sessions reveal what businesses can learn from the orchestra pit. His work inspires creativity, teamwork, and a renewed sense of connection among colleagues. Book Rainer to bring laughter, leadership, and a symphonic touch to your next event.

Rainer's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

The Conductor As A Leader
Rainer Hersch explores what the art of conducting reveals about leadership in practice. Through a mix of comedy, musical demonstration, and sharp insight, he examines how conductors inspire trust, shape collaboration, and communicate vision under pressure. Drawing parallels between the orchestra and the workplace, he shows how leadership, when done well, turns chaos into harmony and performance into art.
Team Building Session
Rainer Hersch transforms teamwork into a musical adventure as participants join his orchestra to perform a rock classic together. Divided into groups led by professional musicians, teams discover hidden creative talents while learning the importance of timing, listening, and collective focus. The session builds confidence, energy, and camaraderie, culminating in a joyful finale that captures the magic of collaboration in full swing.
The Rainer Hersch Orkestra
Rainer Hersch leads his own ensemble of virtuoso musicians in a brilliantly original fusion of comedy and classical music. From Rossini to the Beatles, the Orkestra transforms familiar favourites into hilarious, high-energy performances that keep audiences laughing and listening in equal measure. With sharp wit, flawless timing, and impeccable musicianship, Rainer turns the concert hall into a comedy stage, proving that orchestral music can be both world-class and wonderfully funny.

Why we recommend booking Rainer

Rainer Hersch masterfully blends classical music with comedy, transforming orchestral performances into accessible, hilarious experiences that have delighted audiences across 30 countries and prestigious venues like London's Festival Hall. Book Rainer now to energise your team with laughter and leadership insights drawn from the orchestra pit.

Check Rainer's availability

Trusted by Direct Marketing Association, BBC, Philharmonia Orchestra, St Petersburg Philharmonic

Testimonials

Rainer was great. There was loads of positive feedback.

Direct Marketing Association

Victor Borge for a new generation.

The Times

At last a musical comedian with a difference – he is really funny.

The Telegraph

The Telegraph

Featured Projects

Rainer Hersch - Rainer Hersch's Proms in the Pub podcast cover
Rainer Hersch - The Rainer Hersch Orkestra book cover
Rainer Hersch - All Classical Music Explained book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Rainer Hersch for my next event?
Email rainer.hersch@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Rainer's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Rainer Hersch's stage presence like?
Rainer Hersch uses live musical demonstration as the structural backbone of his sessions, performing alongside professional musicians or conducting audience members through a rock classic to make leadership and teamwork principles tangible in real time. His format pairs this hands-on orchestral participation with stand-up comedy and musical parody, drawing on a repertoire that spans Rossini to the Beatles to sustain both the comedic and educational arc of a performance.
What topics does Rainer Hersch specialise in?
Rainer Hersch's sessions cover leadership through conducting, orchestral team building, and live comedy-classical performance. He has performed at over thirty countries' worth of venues including the Festival Hall and Konzerthaus Berlin, with thirteen Edinburgh Festival appearances and BBC writing and presenting credits to his name.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.