Festspiele MV — Thomanerchor Leipzig in Güstrow Cathedral

The Thomanerchor — A Myth

Over 800 years of history, an unbroken line of Thomaskantors from Johann Sebastian Bach to the present day, worldwide tours, regular motets in Leipzig's St. Thomas Church: The Thomanerchor is one of the oldest boys' choirs in the world and one of Germany's sonic landmarks. Its repertoire ranges from Renaissance polyphony and the monumental Bach Passions to Romantic and contemporary choral works.

The Concert in Güstrow Cathedral

On June 24, 2026, at 7:00 PM, the Thomaner will sing under the direction of the Thomaskantor in Güstrow Cathedral. The program traces a chronological arc: works by older masters such as Heinrich Schütz and William Byrd, central Bach motets — likely including "Komm, Jesu, komm" BWV 229 —, alongside examples from recent choral music (Igor Stravinsky, John Rutter, Samuel Scheidt). A journey through the centuries, carried by young voices with great training.

Venue with Aura

Güstrow Cathedral is one of the most impressive late Gothic churches in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. A late Gothic brick building from the 13th century, featuring Ernst Barlach's famous "Schwebende" (Floating Figure) in the north chapel, and acoustics perfectly suited for unaccompanied choir: an ideal stage for the fine, transparent vocal culture of the Thomaner.

Festspielsommer 2026

In 2026, the Festspiele Mecklenburg-Vorpommern will celebrate its 35th anniversary. Approximately 250 artists will perform in around 80 venues between mid-June and mid-September. With the Thomanerchor and the Armida Quartet as Artists in Residence, two artistic centers will be the focus in 2026 — the series in Güstrow is one of the season's highlights.