A scientific research project will investigate experiences of injustice within the St. Thomas Choir since 1945. The aim is to address physical, psychological, and sexual violence against male children and adolescents and to acknowledge their suffering, the city of Leipzig announced on Wednesday.

Thomanerchor Leipzig

Those affected should be given the opportunity to describe their experiences in a safe environment. For this purpose, an online portal for eyewitness accounts has been set up at the University of Leipzig. The study will also examine the institutional, educational, and social conditions under which boundary violations were possible and which structures facilitated abuse. Furthermore, it will consider how such experiences and reports were handled.

The time spent in the choir is associated with formative memories of musical training, friendships, and community for generations of former members of the St. Thomas Choir, it was stated. However, it is also known that not all experiences were positive. "With this study, the St. Thomas Choir and the City of Leipzig, as its sponsor, are taking responsibility for also considering this part of its history," said Mayor for Culture Skadi Jennicke (The Left Party).

The Leipzig Thomanerchor looks back on a history of more than 800 years and is one of the oldest boys' choirs in Europe.

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