July 11th, 2018, The Champions Competition “Musica Contemporanea” at the World Choir Games in South Africa: The Kammerchor Wernigerode from Germany was one of the top choirs to perform and received unexpected high-level support by Wernigerode’s Mayor Peter Gaffert, and the city’s Head of Cultural Affairs, Christian Fischer. Both took time during their stay in South Africa to join in, watch and cheer “their” Kammerchor Wernigerode. The singers and conductor Benjamin Stielau were happy to be backed by their home town and enjoyed shake hands, compliments and a short exchange with their prominent fans.

The Kammerchor Wernigerode travelled to South Africa to compete in category Musica Contemporanea and Mixed Youth Choirs. The results have not been announced yet and the singers and their home town will have to rein their impatience until the official Award Ceremonies on July 13 and 14. In 2019 the city will also celebrate its own choir festival: The 11th International Johannes Brahms Choir Festival & Competition will transform the city into an international choral stage from July 3 - 7, 2019. This event also features an International Conductor’s Seminar from June 29 to July 2, 2019 with André van der Merwe (South Africa) and Romāns Vanags (Latvia) will act as workshop leaders and lecturers.