50 Years of Braunschweiger Domsingschule – Anniversary Festival

Fifty Years of Domsingschule

The Braunschweiger Domsingschule was founded in 1976 and, over five decades, has introduced generations of children and young people to professional choral singing. Today, it is one of Northern Germany's most significant singing and choral schools and an integral part of church music at the Braunschweiger Dom. The "Kurrenden" – as the choirs of the Domsingschule are traditionally called – regularly participate in services, concerts, and performances such as the St. Matthew Passion, shaping the musical profile of the cathedral.

An Anniversary Program with Twenty Events

The anniversary program from May 1st to 10th, 2026, is exceptionally extensive with over 20 individual events. It spans a wide range from festive services and concerts to participatory workshops and film screenings, to parties for alumni and a Taizé service. Venues include the Braunschweiger Dom, the premises of the Domsingschule, and other locations in the city center.

Highlight: John Rutter Choral Day on May 3rd

A special highlight is the Choral Day on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, with the British composer and choirmaster John Rutter. Rutter is among the most frequently performed choral composers of our time and is internationally sought after as a conductor and educator. His visit to Braunschweig is a significant cultural event and underscores the high importance of the Domsingschule in the choral scene.

World Premieres and Night of the Choirs

Two world premieres musically frame the anniversary: On May 1st, the festival work "Erhebe deine Stimme" will be performed, followed by "Finden, was verloren schien" on May 9th. Both works were specially composed for the anniversary. The "Night of the Choirs" on May 8th brings together several choral ensembles in a festive concert – a sonic experience showcasing the diversity and quality of Braunschweig's choral scene.

Workshops, Film, and Taizé

The program also explicitly invites participation: workshops for singers of all levels, a film screening about the history of the Domsingschule, and a Taizé evening with meditative chants complete the offering. Families, school classes, choir friends, and all music enthusiasts are welcome.