Escolania de Montserrat
Montserrat is home to one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe. Documents testify to the existence of a religious and music school in Montserrat as far back as the 14th century.
The Escolania now accompanies religious ceremonies and communal prayers in the basilica. All the choir members receive a high standard of musical training, along with human and intellectual education. The choir enjoys international fame and prestige, giving concert performances all over the world, as well as building up a large catalogue of recordings.
Over the course of its history, the school has produced a good number of choirmasters and musicians, as well as well-known composers and teachers. The Escolania also enables some of the monks at Montserrat to work in the field of composing, producing and teaching music.
Selection process and candidate preparation:
- Boys join the Choir School at 4th level of Primary and 5th level if place is available.
- Boys are selected on the basis of the three following points:
- Voice and musical theory
- School performance
- Adaptation and sociability
Boys' choir Times:
From Monday to Friday:
13.00h Salve and Virolai
From Monday to Thursday:
18.45h Vespers, Salve Montserratina and Polyphonic Motet
Saturdays:
The Boys' Choir doesn't sing
Sundays and religious holidays:
12.00h Salve and Virolai
18.45h Vespers, Salve Montserratina and Polyphonic Motet
Choir performance times may vary according to special religious celebrations and the school calendar.