Who laid the foundations for the Vienna Boys’ Choir? Which musicians were famous choirboys? How many choirboys are there today and where do they perform regularly? Emperor Maximilian founded the Vienna Court Music Chapel and subsequently the Boys’ Choir in 1498 when he moved the court from Innsbruck to Vienna. Originally it was the Wilten Boys’ Choir near Innsbruck, some of whom Maximilian took with him to Vienna. The choir’s task was to provide music for the Holy Mass. Initially there were only six boys, but later the choir was expanded to 14 to 20 boys.
Until 1918, the Hofmusikkapelle played exclusively for the Habsburg court and was disbanded in 1920. Thanks to the efforts of the rector at the time, Josef Schnitt, the tradition was continued and in 1924 the Vienna Boys’ Choir was officially founded as an association . Franz Schubert was a famous choirboy, while Mozart only made music with the choir, as did many other composers, such as Salieri or Anton Bruckner. Joseph and Michael Haydn sang as substitutes in the choir.
Present
Today, the 100-strong boys’ choir is one of the most renowned in the world and is largely made up of Austrian children, but also from other nations. The age range is between ten and fourteen. The regular performance in the Hofburgkapelle is still one of the fixed appearances of the Vienna Boys’ Choir. They are regarded as Austria’s youngest ambassadors and are known worldwide.
Their sailor suit, which has been the official choir dress since 1924 , is unmistakable. The Vienna Boys’ Choir performs around 300 concerts a season, often on their concert tours around the world. Traditionally, they often perform in Japan and the USA. Concert tours to China, Taiwan and Singapore are also frequent. Their repertoire ranges from the Middle Ages to the present day. They sing everything from classical choral music to internationally renowned film and pop music.
Time Travel Tip: On Sundays, the Vienna Boys’ Choir sings mass in the Hofburg Chapel. A ticket is required for this touching treat. Court Music Orchestra: Vienna Court Orchestra
More info: The Vienna Boys’ Choir – Home (wienersaengerknaben.at)
Image source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wiener_Saengerknaben.jpg?uselang=de
