London/Dresden, 3 September 2025. Make time for the sound of Saxony in London's Central Hall Westminster: On 4 October, Dresden-born opera star René Pape and the city's Kreuzchor boys' choir will unite with three renowned European choirs from the UK, France and Poland to perform “Requiem A”, a new requiem created by German composer Sven Helbig to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.

The piece of music, which the Telegraph called “a German reply to Britten's War Requiem”, premiered in Dresden's Kreuzkirche in February 2025, followed by a performance in May on Vienna's Heldenplatz square featuring the Vienna Symphony Orchestra. For its UK premiere, the Dresden-based initiative led by composer Sven Helbig and Dresden Kreuzchor will collaborate with the London Contemporary Orchestra. The line-up also features London's Trinity Boys Choir, Poznań Boys' Choir from Poland and La Maîtrise de Garçons de Colmar from France.

Soloist René Pape, one of the world's leading basses, was a member of Dresden's legendary Kreuzchor from 1974 to 1981. Kreuzchor is one of the world's oldest boys' choirs with a history going back to the city's first mention in the early 13th century. Visitors can enjoy the choir at its “homebase”, Dresden's Kreuzkirche on Altmarkt square, at vespers, church services and regular concerts. Tip for the upcoming festive season: Christmas market travellers should pencil in the choir's Christmas song evenings and Bach's Christmas Oratorio in December!

ENDS

Notes to the Editor

For “Requiem A” information and tickets (4 October, 7 pm) please see here.

About Tourismus Marketing Gesellschaft Sachsen

Tourismus Marketing Gesellschaft Sachsen (TMGS) is responsible for marketing Saxony as a travel destination. This region in eastern Germany features scenic beauty, a rich heritage of music and culture and unique handicrafts and traditions. Saxony's historic towns and cities are charming destinations full of character, and stunning castles, palaces and gardens delight with their splendour and beauty. The region's varied nature also provides ample grounds for active breaks and fun-filled family holidays. In other words: #VisitSaxony!
 
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