Hamburger Oratorienchor – die Konzertgemeinschaft in Hamburg

The Hamburg Oratorio Choir consists of three choirs with about 160 active male and female singers. They are independent units for organisational reasons and they rehearse separately but appear on stage all together:

Brahms Chor e.V.
Hamburger Oratorienchor Altona e.V.
Hamburger Oratorienchor Barmbek

Every spring the choirs jointly sing a main concert in the Laeiszhalle Hamburg. We mainly perform works of the classical choral repertoire accompanied by the Symphonic Orchestra of Hamburg (Symphoniker Hamburg) almost every time. Additionally, every year we sing a summer concert of mostly sacral music. This concert comprises a cappella pieces often accompanied by grand piano or organ.

Enjoy a short audio sample: Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy – PAULUS, “Herr, der Du bist der Gott” (Excerpt used with permission of Symphoniker Hamburg and Fa. Ederhof Audioproduction)

The history of the three choirs is different and eventful. However, they have Hellmut Wormsbächer in common, who was their very successful chorus master for many years. In 1968 the choirs got together and founded the association “Hamburger Oratorienchor” (Hamburg Oratorio Choir). Since 1998, Thekla Jonathal has been in charge of the Hamburg Oratorio Choir.

In the course of time the three choirs have constantly grown together in artistic and personal ways still remaining independent organisational units. Thekla Jonathal essentially contributes to a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere during our weekly choir practices. Her outstanding professionalism and great commitment ensures this relaxing mood. Furthermore she knows how to train the voice intensively and at the same time rehearses the scor in a comprehensible way. Also, Thekla gives detailed explanations on the pieces, their composers and their musical particularities so that the singers can understand the musical score better. Specific features of the particular compositions and their difficulties are made transparent and accessible so that you find it easy to sing them.

Are you looking for a choir? Should you have a nice voice, be musical, be able to read music and be willing to come to rehearsals regularly, you are most welcome to join us. Simply come to any of our choirs for some non-binding introductory rehearsals. You will find time and venue on this website. We would be very happy to meet you soon!