“What’s that beautiful sound?” someone whispered as they passed by. That sound is emanating from the ChorForum Essen. It is more than just a building. It is a testament to Essen’s vibrant cultural scene.
Originally, this building was the Catholic Church of St. Engelbert. It served the community in Essen’s Sternviertel, near the Aalto Theater. However, in 2007, the Diocese of Essen stopped using it as a church.
In 2011, Alexander Eberle transformed the space. He was then the choir director at the Aalto Theater. With his founded ChorForum Essen e.V., he breathed new life into the building. The ChorForum Essen is a non-profit. It is dedicated to promoting choral and music activities in Essen.
The building underwent extensive renovations. These renovations respected its original church design. The ChorForum Essen now serves as a venue for performances. It can host about 400 people.
The basement houses smaller event spaces. It also provides rehearsal and work areas. Many groups use these spaces. These include the Folkwang Chamber Orchestra and the German Silver Singers. Even the dance department of the Folkwang Music School calls this place home.
The ChorForum Essen extends an invitation. It welcomes citizens, companies, groups, and associations. All can use the spaces for their own events.
In early 2015, the ChorForum Essen Foundation was established. This foundation owns the St. Engelbert church building. It ensures the ChorForum Essen’s long-term sustainability.
Alexander Eberle is the initiator of this non-profit. He directs the ChorForum Essen e.V.. His goal is to promote choral work in Essen. Since 2011, the association has realized Eberle’s vision. It is an Essen choir house in the historic former Catholic Church of St. Engelbert.
The ChorForum Essen is a partner of the Ehrenamt Agentur Essen. This highlights its commitment to community engagement. The building itself was constructed between 1934 and 1935. Dominikus Böhm was the architect.
In Essen, the ChorForum is more than a building. It is a vibrant hub. It celebrates music and community. It’s a place where voices blend. It is a testament to Essen’s cultural spirit.