Music News

Risto Joost has been appointed the new artistic director of MDR Leipzig Radio Choir


Risto Joost
Photo: Kaupo Kikkas
  Risto Joost has been appointed the new artistic director of MDR Leipzig Radio Choir, assuming the post in season 2015/2016. The contract between Joost and choir is initially for two years with an extension option for two further years. Joost has previously collaborated with MDR Radio Choir three times, at last in December 2013 at Gewandhaus in Leipzig. Joost will conduct the next concert of MDR Leipzig Radio Choir on May 22, 2015 at St. Peter’s Church in Leipzig.

The MDR Radio Choir was founded in 1946 and is the largest and most traditional public service broadcasting choir and is regarded by experts as one of the best. The ensemble is an excellent partner for the major orchestras and it has proven itself with many highly acclaimed “a cappella” works. Secular and sacred music, ensemble singing and choral symphonic works belong equally in the repertoire that encompasses virtually a thousand years of musical history. As a specialist ensemble for contemporary music the 73 singers have created a name for themselves through numerous world and European premières.

Nearly 200 LPs and CDs – many of them award-winning – have been recorded by the ensemble during its more than 60-year history. Via the European Broadcasting Union, through touring and guest performances worldwide, the MDR RADIO CHOIR, which was awarded the 2013 European Cultural Prize, fulfils its role as a musical ambassador for Central Germany.

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