In terms of popular music, Hamburg is the undisputed No. 1 in Germany. The music and entertainment industry relies on a robust infrastructure of over 100 music clubs, 280 music publishers and 200 labels, not to mention countless bands. The world's most famous district of Hamburg, the St. Pauli party district, has certainly helped in that development. Between Reeperbahn and Große Freiheit, visitors from all over the world encounter a unique mix of legendary clubs, bars, pubs and theatres. The career of the Beatles once began in the Star Club, they played here every night for two years before they became a worldwide phenomenon. For lovers of classical music, Hamburg offers the already legendary Elbphilharmonie, affectionately known locally as "Elphi". The Hamburg State Opera is also considered a leading address in Germany. In addition, there are a large number of privately run theatres. Especially when it comes to musicals, Hamburg is the center of Germany. Around 60 museums display collections of art, history and science, some of them of international significance. With more than 10,000 freelance artists living and working here, Hamburg is the most creative metropolises in Germany after Berlin.
