Berlin
It’s hard to believe it’s over 20 years since the world watched in amazement as the Berlin Wall was brought down, bringing an end to 40 years of separation. Since that time the city has spent years living in the shadow of construction but, as the last of the major projects are finished, locals and tourists alike can now savour the beauty of a revitalised city. The art scene in Berlin is also flourishing with numerous galleries and an abundance of classical concerts making Berlin an exciting and vibrant destination to visit.
Where to Sing
Berliner Dom
Choirs are offered the opportunity to perform a daytime recital in the cathedral; the largest church in Berlin that attracts thousands of visitors year after year.
Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial
The church was badly damaged in a bombing raid during World War II and stands both as a symbol of the hardship that Berlin endured in the war years, and as a symbol of reconciliation with former enemies. Choirs are invited to perform inside the church with proceeds going towards the restoration of the building.
Nikolaikirche
In the beautiful town of Potsdam to the south west of Berlin, groups have the pleasure of performing at the Neo-Classical Nikolaikirche, with its towering dome and an interior décor based on designs by Karl Friedrich Schinkel. Many classical concerts are performed throughout the year attracting a loyal following.
What to Do
Reichstag
Built between 1884 and 1894, The Reichstag is an iconic symbol of pre and post-war Berlin. Its famous glass dome offers stunning 360 degree views of the city.
The House of the Wannsee Conference
An emotive visit for historians, this memorial houses a permanent exhibition detailing the Wannsee Conference and its involvement in the conception and implementation of the ‘Final Solution’.
Leipzig
An ideal day trip from Berlin, Leipzig is exceptionally rich in musical history, where J.S. Bach wrote many of his masterpieces, Wagner was born and Schumann and Mendelssohn worked. The Bach Museum and the Thomaskirche therefore ensure a most memorable day. Well worth a visit is Auerbach’s Keller, famous for a carousing scene in Goethe’s ‘Faust’.
Prices from £464*
Where to Stay
NH Hotel Berlin City West
TThis four-star hotel is just five minutes from one of Berlin’s most popular shopping streets as well as being ideally located for visits to many of the city’s famous sights such as Berlin’s Memorial Church and Zoo, and the nearby Savigny Platz area with its numerous bars and restaurants.
*Price based on 45 paying passengers travelling in February by air, on a bed and breakfast basis at the NH Hotel City West for 5 days 4 nights. The tour price also includes the services of a courier and three concerts. Priced on the 19.03.10.
