Freiburg Cathedral Boys' Choir

The Freiburg Cathedral Boys' Choir (Freiburger Domsingknaben) is one ensemble of the "Freiburg Cathedral Music" in southwest Germany, which has a history that can be traced back over eight centuries. It is directed by Boris Böhmann and composed of about 55 boys and 25 adult voices.

Historical Overview

As early as the 13th century, there is evidence of a Latin school which had an important role in the formation of choral music at the Cathedral in Freiburg. Since the 16th century, polyphonic music for the boys’ choir at the Cathedral has been passed down in written form.

The boys sang at early mass, at vespers, and on Sundays and holidays, often together with the Cathedral Chamber Choir, into the 20th century. During the Nationalsocialist period, the choirs were dissolved, only to be officially reinstated on the Feast of All Saints in 1970. This was accomplished by Director of Music and prelate Dr. Raimund Hug, whose 30-year direction brought a new level of international acclaim for the choir. Since the 1970s, the Boys’ Choir has been responsible for Sunday and feast day masses at the Cathedral.

The choir has performed in spiritual and secular concerts under conductors such as Lorin Maazel, Michael Gielen, Neville Creed, Philippe Herreweghe, Ingo Metzmacher, Roland Bader and Moshe Atzmon. For its musical achievements, the choir has received various honours and awards. Concert tours have taken the Freiburg Cathedral Boys’ Choir throughout Germany and Europe as...
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