In 1991 Thomas Hengelbrock brought together outstanding vocal soloists to form the Balthasar-Neumann-Chor. Already the first concerts were sensational successes, and the Choir is meanwhile considered “one of the best choirs in the world” (Gramophone). At the center of their artistic endeavors are compositions of the sixteenth through eighteenth centuries, yet the joint effort also leads to an involvement with contemporary works, for example, in “Vermächtnisse” (Legacies), a musical journey through time during which works from Perotin through to György Ligeti are to be heard. The preparation of unknown sacred works and Italian choral music are of particular importance to the Choir.

The extraordinary thespian talents of the individual choir members are displayed in the joint musical theater productions and staged projects with the Balthasar-Neumann-Ensemble. Highlights have included the scenic performances “Italian Carnival Music” in masks and costumes, as well as “Metamorphosis of Melancholy”, a homage to English composers and poets of the seventeenth century, and the musical theater “King Arthur” with the music of Henry Purcell and the drama by John Dryden.