In the 19th century, amateur choral societies sprang up in many German towns and cities, shaping local musical life. In Bonn, too, a municipal choral society was founded in 1852, dedicated to performing choral symphonic works from the Classical and Romantic periods, and it became an integral part of Bonn’s concert scene. In 1966, the choir was renamed the Philharmonischer Chor der Stadt Bonn (Philharmonic Choir of the City of Bonn).

The choir’s repertoire continues to focus on major symphonic works, although over time it has been expanded to include English and French choral music. Participation in municipal concerts in collaboration with the Beethoven Orchestra Bonn remains a central cornerstone of the choir’s activities. The choir also performs at Beethovenfest Bonn and takes part in the musical programming of events organised as part of the Bonn-Oxford town twinning scheme. Regular concerts organised by the choir itself are also a hallmark of the Philharmonic Choir. Particularly noteworthy are the concerts and musical tours at the Old Cemetery Bonn, the proceeds of which go towards the preservation of this historic site.

The Philharmonische Chor Bonn has for many years invested in maintaining its high standards through professional voice training. The soprano and voice coach Elisabeth Menke works with the choir members to develop the expressiveness of each individual voice. This is what gives the choir its distinctive sound. Although the Bonn Philharmonic Choir remains an amateur choir, it now sees itself as a semi-professional ensemble. This is reflected in invitations to perform in Germany and abroad with renowned conductors such as Esa-Pekka Salonen and Christoph von Dohnányi.

The choir is actively involved in social and political issues. It runs accompanying school projects at the Tannenbusch Gymnasium for selected concert formats, introducing young people to classical music. But the choir is also deeply committed to supporting the elderly and those in need within our urban community. For instance, it supports the »Weihnachtslicht« (»Christmas Light«) campaign organised by the General-Anzeiger Bonn through performances at the Bonn Christmas market.

Paul Krämer has been conducting the Bonn Philharmonic Choir since 2016. He also works as a lecturer in ensemble singing at the WDR Choir Academy and as a guest conductor with various national and international vocal ensembles.