Dakota Beacon

In 1498, Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I commanded that 12 boys were to be recruited and trained to sing, thus founding the prototype of the modern-day Vienna Boys Choir.  Over the centuries, the boys’ choir was a treasure of the Habsburg Empire. They sang for church services, for special occasions, banquets. Like everything else of that golden era, the Vienna Boys Choir lost its financial support and fell into disorganization following World War I.  The boys returned home to their parents. But Monsignor Josef Schnitt reconstituted the boys’ choir with his own money and began the tradition of the sailor suits which have become associated with the boys.  

Over the years, many composers were associated with the Boys’ Choir, including Mozart, Bruckner and others.  Franz Josef and Michael Haydn and Franz Schubert sang with them.

Not only are these boys fine singers but they also meet very high academic standards and act as cultural ambassadors for their country and city.  

Today the Boys’ Choir tours worldwide, bringing their angelic sound to millions of fans.  They are a great Austrian tradition and a tremendous contribution to our culture. Christmas seems to be the perfect time to hear their magical sound.  Here’s a tribute to the Vienna Boys’ Choir - and wishes for a joyous and blessed Christmas!

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