When Kurt Masur founded the Philharmonic Choirs in 1967 during his tenure as principal conductor of the Dresdner Philharmonie, no one could have foreseen the momentum they would gain. What began as an initiative has since become an established institution: the Philharmonic Children’s Choir and the Philharmonic Choir Dresden together form a vibrant choral family that shapes the orchestra’s concert life and delights audiences with its own performances. In addition, the Dresdner Philharmonie offers the Kulti Citizens’ Choir and other opportunities for anyone who enjoys singing in a choir, values a sense of community and draws strength from singing together.

Over the decades, distinguished choir directors such as Prof. Jürgen Becker, Matthias Geißler, Prof. Gunter Berger and Iris Geißler have shaped and developed a distinctive vocal culture. Many singers grow up in this world from an early age. They begin in the preparatory classes at the age of five or six, later sing in the children’s choir and, from around the age of twelve, in the concert choir, often eventually finding their place in the Philharmonic Choir as adults. This close connection between training and artistic practice is also reflected in the current programmes: the choirs will take part in Beethoven’s Fantasy for Piano, Soloists, Choir and Orchestra and will also be at the centre of the gala concert marking the 60th anniversary of the Philharmonic Choirs, a programme devoted entirely to a cappella singing.

What unites all these generations is more than musical ability: choir singing requires time, discipline and genuine commitment, as for everyone involved it remains a passion pursued alongside other walks of life. It is therefore all the more remarkable that the choirs have recently experienced a surge in popularity – a clear sign of their vitality and appeal.

To mark the anniversary, the two choir directors also have a few personal words for their audience: Prof. Gunter Berger and Iris Geißler have each recorded a short voice message about their choir and their joint musical work. Listen here: