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The Vokalensemble Stadthagen (= VESH) was founded in 1975 by Gerald A. Manig. The choir consists of about 30 experienced chamber choir singers mostly in non-musical professions. Since 1975 the Vokalensemble has successfully performed many different concert programs, during which time it has also worked periodically on joint projects with other renowned choirs of the region. The "Demantius Choir Oldenburg" was, for example, its partner in particularly memorable performances of J.S. Bach's B minor Mass (BWV 232) and Monteverdi's Marienvesper. The VESH has been very active in regional and national competitions. It won the first prize of the German Choir Competition 1994 in the section "Jazz vocal et cetera". The choir's success brought invitations to Israel and St. Petersburg, paving the way to an international choir life.
For a number of years the choir's repertoire has consisted not only of classical sacred and secular music, but of Pop, Folk, Rock and Jazz as well.
As a result the WDR broadcasting service engaged the choir on several occasions, for the radio's program on light classical music. Since 1978 the NDR broadcasting company have used the choir on a regular basis for performances of sacred a-capella music.
Benefit concerts are another facet of the choir's performing life, and to this end has involved itself with "Kindernothilfe", "Amnesty international" and the "German AIDS Help". Last but not least TV productions and CD recordings are yet another part of the choir's activities. |
