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Music at the TU Clausthal, Vol. 2

When they perform, the concert venues in Clausthal are always well attended: the Big Band, the Rock, Pop and Jazz Choir, the Symphony Orchestra and the University Choir. The four TU Clausthal ensembles offer something for every musical taste. And the best thing is: anyone who enjoys music can take part. Do you play an instrument or like to sing, would you like to meet new people and are you looking for a suitable hobby? I've taken a closer look at the music on offer at the TU. Maybe there's something suitable for you.

Last week, the big band and the rock, pop and jazz choir took center stage with many modern and younger pieces. In the second part of the mini-series on music at Clausthal University of Technology, I will introduce you to two more ensembles: the symphony orchestra and the university choir. Are you passionate about classical music? Then you should take a look at what makes these two TU ensembles special.

Classical is also possible: the TU Clausthal symphony orchestra

I associate my first concert at Clausthal University of Technology last winter semester with the university's symphony orchestra. Until then, I had seen very few crowds in the Oberharz. So I was all the more surprised that the plenum hall was almost fully booked and packed on the evening of the concert!

All students and employees of the TU as well as musicians from the surrounding area can play in the orchestra. The only requirement is that you have your own instrument, as there are no instruments for hire. Unlike the Big Band, the symphony orchestra is not an association, so members do not pay any fees.

Since the winter semester 22/23, there has been a special feature: the ensemble is now a project orchestra. This means that a program on a specific theme is put together each semester. Amateur musicians from the region are invited to take part in the project. The program is then rehearsed over several rehearsal weekends. The orchestra is currently rehearsing on the theme of "Strong women" and is only preparing pieces composed by women.

The symphony orchestra usually meets every second Wednesday for rehearsals in the auditorium. The rehearsal schedule with the exact dates is always posted on the symphony orchestra website for the new semester. If you are thinking about becoming part of the orchestra, please contact the spokesperson Anna Godesberg. The next opportunity to listen in is at the end-of-semester concert in Clausthal. On January 28, the ensemble will present the project "Strong Women" in the auditorium.

Rehearsal times: Wednesday, from 7.30 pm, Aula Academica (Aulastrasse 8)
Contact: Anna Godesberg, orchester.sprecher@tu-clausthal.de

Professionally trained voices: the Clausthal University of Technology choir

Around 40 singers currently make up the university choir. As with the other ensembles, members of the TU as well as external people who are interested in singing can join. The choir is also organized as an association. Before you join, however, you have the opportunity to take part in a choir project (for about one semester) free of charge. After that, membership for students costs 15 euros per semester, other members pay 60 euros.

The singers of the university choir also prepare a program during the semester, which they present at final concerts. They are often accompanied by well-known soloists or other music ensembles such as the Göttingen Baroque Orchestra or the Kammerphilharmonie Wernigerode. The choir rehearses a total of two new projects a year.

Rehearsals of the university choir take place every Thursday evening in the auditorium and are always open to anyone interested. If you would like to join, you can find out which voice group is right for you in a short consultation audition with the choir director. The Uni-Chor places great importance on professional voice training. Vocal training sessions are therefore firmly integrated into the rehearsal schedule.

In contrast to the other ensembles, the Uni-Chor holds its major concerts at the beginning of each new semester, usually at the end of October and beginning of May. In between, it regularly performs at ceremonies and other TU Clausthal events. The next concert is scheduled for May 4 in the auditorium.

Rehearsal times: Thursday, 7.30 to 9.30 pm, Aula Academica (Aulastrasse 8)
Contact: tuc-kammerchor@web.de

Surprisingly versatile

I have to admit: Before my time at Clausthal, I wouldn't necessarily have expected a large music and cultural program at a primarily technical university - also because there wasn't much choice at my "normal" universities. However, Clausthal University of Technology surprised me in a positive way. If you like and enjoy music, you'll get your money's worth from the many options. Whether as a member of one of the four ensembles or as a listener at one of the upcoming concerts - the music at our university is definitely worth experiencing. Make the most of the next opportunity and see for yourself.

Do you have any questions, suggestions or a topic proposal? Then write me an e-mail: blog@tu-clausthal.de