Leipzig
Leipzig has played a vital role in German musical and political history; JS Bach was Cantor of the Thomasschule here. The city also has strong associations with Mahler, Mendelssohn, Schumann and Wagner. More recently, Leipzig saw the ‘Monday demonstrations’ which began in the precinct of St Nicholas Church (where Bach also worked) and contributed to the end of the German Democratic Republic and the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Today, Leipzig is both an important centre for world trade and a cultural powerhouse boasting the Gewandhaus Orchestra, a world-class opera house and the St Thomas Boys’ Choir.
Where to Sing
Nikolaikirche
One of the most unusual venues that this area of Germany has to offer, the church combines Gothic and Baroque styles with highly unusual interior decoration in the form of palm fronds.
The Bach Monument
Outside the Thomaskirche is the Bach Monument under which it is possible to give an informal performance. Summer concerts here are popular and well attended with often 800 people gathering in the shadow of Bach's statue.
Bad Schmiedeberg
This beautiful spa town has a stunning nineteenth-century hall, offering a great performance opportunity for a choir of any size with a classical repertoire. An excellent Blüthner grand piano is available and the acoustics are superb.
What to Do
In the footsteps of Faust
Dine in stylish surroundings in Auerbachs Keller, a subterranean highlight serving classic Saxon dishes. This is the spot where Goethe set Faust’s dinner with the devil. The restaurant claims that Goethe was there for a broader reason: “He who travels to the trade markets of Leipzig without visiting Auerbachs Yard must hold his peace. It proves: He has not seen Leipzig.”
Stasi Museum & Bunker
A visit to the Round Corner Stasi Museum is a fascinating experience. This is where the Stasi headquarters in Leipzig were, and the interior has been preserved as far as possible to maintain the original features: “Linoleum floors, brownish-yellow wallpaper, folding grills at the doors and windows, exposed cable ducts and old radiators are still found throughout the entire museum"
You might wish to combine this with a visit to a preserved Stasi command bunker outside of the city, which would have been the base for Stasi operations in the event of what was euphemistically called “tension and mobilization.”
Bach heritagev
St Thomas’ church in Leipzig is where Bach was Cantor for the last 27 years of his life. His grave is in the church and there is a exhibition of material in the Bach Museum directly opposite. If you visit during June you may be able to attend a concert as part of Bachfest, which attracts some of the world’s top performers to the city. If you’re especially lucky, you may stumble upon a rehearsal of the Thomanerchor.
Prices from £489*
Where to Stay
Hotel Balance
The German four-star Balance Hotel Leipzig is centrally located, approximately 10 minutes from Leipzig Main Station. Rooms are spacious and offer tea and coffee making facilities. A restaurant, garden terrace, bar and health club ensure that there are many ways in which you can choose to wind down after a day of performing.
*Price based on 45 paying passengers travelling in July by air, on a bed and breakfast basis at the Hotel Balance for 5 days 4 nights. The tour price also includes the services of a courier and three concerts. Priced on the 19.03.10.
