German Promoter Legend Peter Rieger Dies

The founder of German concert promotion company Peter Rieger Konzertagentur died Jan. 31 at the age of 63.

– Peter Rieger

Rieger promoted concerts by Cher, David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, Janet Jackson, Pink, Lionel Richie, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, Roger Waters, Barbra Streisand and Luciano Pavarotti, among others.

He started out in live entertainment aged 17, as an intern for the late Fritz Rau. He also worked for Mama Concerts as local promoter in Cologne and the surrounding area.

Rieger and his wife at the time founded the Peter Rieger Konzertagentur in 1983. He received multiple awards, including the ILMC’s promoter’s promoter award in 2004 and six live entertainment awards, including one in 2015 for lifetime achievement.
2015 also marked the year Peter Rieger put Klaus-Peter Matziol in charge of his company.

“The staff and long-term collaborators of the Peter Rieger Konzertagentur are saddened by the sudden loss of their founder and longtime CEO, Mr. Peter Rieger,” a statement reads. “A passionate and visionary leader, he guided our company over many decades, creating unforgettable moments in music performance. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”

Eventim also released a statement, saying Rieger’s death means parting with a longstanding companion.

“Peter Rieger will forever remain a role model for many of us,” Eventim said.