Germany Tour - July 2018

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A musical friendship

For more than 30 years, The Choir of Trinity College Cambridge has been a regular guest in Korschenbroich

Very close to perfection – this thought certainly occurred to many in the audience at the concert by Trinity College Choir, after just the first few seconds. As clear as a bell, with harmonic precision and impressive dynamics, the voices of the 32 singers rang out at the weekend in the St Andreas Church. There has been a musical friendship between the students of Cambridge and the town of Korschenbroich since 1985, initiated by the then Cultural Director Peter Josef Steves. Since then the students have enjoyed regular visits to the Rhine-Neuss area.

This time they are spending a whole week in Korschenbroich. “The students live here with host families and enjoy the hospitable family atmosphere”, says Christina Nierwetberg from Korschenbroich Cultural Office. She is hosting two students herself and enjoys spending time with the whole group. “When the students start to sing you get goosebumps because it sounds so beautiful.” In addition to all the discipline which is necessary to deliver such an impressive performance, there is also time to socialise together.  “We organise a whole programme for the students, including meals together and a chance to celebrate.”

The choir is led by Trinity College’s Director of Music, Stephen Layton, one of the most sought-after conductors of our time. He is often described as one of the most important exponents of choral music today. He is regularly invited to work with the world’s leading choirs, orchestras and composers. This great expertise was reflected in the concert. The student choir presented an impressive range of musical styles and epochs, including pieces from the 16th century and modern pieces from the 20th century.