The Orfeo Choir was set up in 1993 during preparations for a performance of Gluck’s "Orfeo ed Euridice" with the Philharmonische Verein Frankfurt. The re-emergence of this opera was followed by performances of Handel’s Messiah, the St John Passion by Johann Sebastian Bach, the 9th Symphony by Ludwig van Beethoven and the Requiem by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In January 2004, the Orfeus Choir performed Handel’s Solomon in the Katharinenkirche Frankfurt. Between these concerts the Choir rehearsed and performed alla capella programmes featuring baroque and romantic works.
The Choir is composed of more than 60 amateur music lovers aged between 20 and 60. Regular rehearsals provide them with the necessary musical training under the direction of music teacher Armin Rothermel. Several choristers also take private vocal training and are involved with other musical productions.
Over the years the Choir’s philosophy has emerged from the pedagogic approach of the director and of the founding members. New members are not required to audition. Individuals are familiarized with the choral works in different ways: via the aural learning of the tones, the study of the notes and above all by regular individual vocal training and the gradual composition of the overall vocal structure. The sociable atmosphere prevailing in this somewhat out-of-the-ordinary choir has been a decisive factor for the long-standing active participation of many memebrs.
Regular rehearsals are held on Thursdays from 19.30 – 22.00h in
Gemeindehaus
Karl-Kautsky-Weg 64
Frankfurt-Niederursel
New singers are always heartily welcome.