With the end of the term fast approaching, the ranks have already thinned out. Nevertheless, the core members of the Ostfalia Choir are rehearsing with unwavering passion right up to the very end. The singers, led by choir director Uwe Döschner, are focusing primarily on two songs that were only recently added to the repertoire: ‘Fly With Me’ from the film *As It Is in Heaven* and ‘Born This Way’ by Lady Gaga. The latter song is particularly close to the members’ hearts, as it reflects the very essence of the choir. Alexa Knieriem: “We practised the song to mark Pride Month in June because it expresses exactly what our choir stands for: mutual respect, openness and tolerance. Everyone is very welcome to come and sing with us.”
Don’t worry, no audition is needed
Choir director Uwe Döschner agrees, emphasising that the doors are always wide open, regardless of whether you have any previous singing experience. And no one has to audition. Döschner: “I can tell someone’s vocal range just by the way they speak.” Exactly a year ago, the Wolfenbüttel native came up with the idea of setting up a choir at Ostfalia. “As a retired church musician, I was looking for a voluntary role where I could work with young people. They have such beautiful, clear voices. As I’d read about Ostfalia in the press from time to time, but never heard anything about a choir, I rang the university after my holiday and suggested setting one up.”
Since October 2025, around 40 students and staff members from Ostfalia have been rehearsing on Wednesdays in Room 147, Am Exer 6, on the Wolfenbüttel campus. Every rehearsal begins with warm-up exercises. Shoulders are rolled, limbs are stretched, tapped and shaken – and there’s a lot of sighing.
First performance at Campus Day
But it’s no longer just about rehearsals. The choir now performs as well. The debut took place on 30 April 2026 at Campus Day. In the auditorium on Salzdahlumer Straße, the songs delighted students, staff and guests alike. The Ostfalia Choir impressed with a varied programme and even had to give two encores! In December, they’ll be performing outside the university for the first time. The choir will take to the stage in front of the castle as part of the Wolfenbüttel Christmas market to sing Christmas carols.
All the details and how to get involved
The Ostfalia Choir is part of the cultural programme that makes Ostfalia a vibrant and diverse place to study. Other opportunities for students to get involved and enjoy their free time include university sports, the Language Centre and various student initiatives.
Next choir rehearsal: Wednesday, 23 September 2026, 5.00–6.30 pm, Room 147, Am Exer 6
The Ostfalia Choir is open to all students and staff, regardless of their field of study or previous musical experience, and promotes an inclusive, international community. Participation is free of charge. Please register with Alexa Knieriem, Denise Rosenthal (see below) or choir director Uwe Döschner. (opens your email program)
