Wolfsburg/Nürnberg. The German Choral Association has launched an international competition, calling on composers to rearrange pieces from the 1912 German-Jewish Songbook for choral performances. This initiative attracted over 50 compositions from six countries, with Israeli composers contributing 28 arrangements.
In collaboration with the German Choral Association, Volkswagen is offering 100 choirs up to 3,000 copies of a special edition music book featuring award-winning compositions from the 'German-Jewish Songbook' arrangement contest. Both partners aim to promote German-Jewish music and uphold shared cultural values. Choirs can apply for free music books starting June 12, 2025, via the association's website.
Christian Wulff, former Federal President and President of the German Choral Association stated: “Music unites! As well as honoring the cultural ties between Germans and Jews, the German Choral Association is encouraging choirs to rediscover music reflecting the shared heritage and roots of German and Jewish culture from the early 20th century. This music shall be furthermore performed at many concerts. I would like to express my gratitude to all our supporters and partners, especially the Volkswagen Group.”
Volkswagen emphasizes its commitment to preserving cultural memory through this project. Gunnar Killian, Member of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG for Human Resources and Trucks remarked: “Jewish culture has enriched social life in Germany for centuries. With the rearrangement of Jewish-German songs, the German Choral Association has initiated a powerful project that strengthens our shared values and brings this positive cultural influence to life. Volkswagen supports and bolsters this unifying effect.”
Benita von Maltzahn, Head of Society and Culture at Volkswagen Group highlighted their dedication: "It is important to us that German-Jewish culture is preserved, kept alive and passed on to the next generation. Only by experiencing our shared culture can we become aware of our common values and defend them against threats. Our special edition for 3,000 singers shall bring these songs back to the heart of our society.”
The winners were celebrated on May 30 during the German Choir Meeting in Nuremberg held from May 29 until June 1 at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum where Volkswagen was acknowledged for its support in publishing special edition music books.