Nationwide Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Trombone Choirs

A "Trombone Choir" is a multi-voice amateur brass ensemble, in which all instruments of the brass family can be found. Musically trombone choirs differ from other brass ensembles by the variable cast and their focus in the care of spiritual songs. Trombone choirs are the trademark of the Protestant church - Nevertheless, a cross-confessional participation is possible.

Facts & figures

Crucial date: all seasons
Inscription: 2016
Domains: performing arts
Where to find: nationwide

Contact

Evangelischer Posaunendienst in Deutschland e.V.
Chairman Rev. Rolf Bareis
@email
www.epid.de

In other respects trombone choirs are characterized by their diverse membership across generations, genders, and milieus. In over 6500 choirs, about 115,000 people perform in trombone choirs.

In 1764, the "trombone choir" was mentioned for the first time in a written document and, especially in the 19th century, developed its present form. Trombone choirs play mainly in worship services. However, they also play on other occasions and in different places: in forest glades, in hospitals, nursing homes, on streets and squares, in cemeteries, in prisons or stadiums.

Regular joint rehearsals and an extensive training program in seminars, trainings and leisure activities contribute to a strong sense of community among the participants. Trombone days on local, regional and national level contribute to a transregional network.

A central concern of trumpet choirs are younger generations. Within the framework of a young-wind-player training, interested people of all ages can learn a brass instrument and become part of a trombone choir. The participation in a trombone choir is voluntary and also the training is performed on an honorary basis. Instruments and notes are provided free of charge normally.

Publication

Bundesweites Verzeichnis Immaterielles Kulturerbe - Jubiläumsausgabe.
Deutsche UNESCO-Kommission, 2023