Volker Hagemann: A new wind for church music in Rottenburg!

Volker Hagemann: A new wind for church music in Rottenburg!

A lot of exciting things are currently happening in the world of church music in Rottenburg-Stuttgart. With a breath of fresh air, the University of Church Music will in the future be led by Volker Hagemann, who will take over the professorship for choral conducting in the winter semester of 2025. He succeeds Prof. Christian Schmid and brings with him a wealth of experience and a clear vision that will advance both the artistic and didactic development of the university. Again Black Forest messenger reports, Hagemann would like to use the university as a hub for promoting young musicians.

The new professor not only brings practical experience, but also has a flair for supporting young talent. Hagemann studied choral conducting at the Würzburg University of Music and has held various leading positions at respected institutions such as the Choir Academy at the Konzerthaus Dortmund and the University of Münster. He is also the founder and leader of the vocal ensemble Crescendo, which has already won several awards. In 2025 he plans to premiere Carl Rütti's “Mysterium Montis” with Crescendo. This is confirmed by the University of Church Music, which is looking forward to innovative and creative management.

Experiences and visions

Hagemann's musical career is impressive. He has not only worked with amateur and professional choirs, but has also been active in international concert projects. His concert activities took him to Austria, Hungary, France, Scotland and Italy, among others. He has realized important choral symphonic works by Bach, Brahms and other greats and was artistic director of several ensembles.

A special highlight of his career was the opening of the Ruhrfestspiele Recklinghausen 2024 with the women's concert choir, which performed live at ARTE Concert was transferred. From October 2025, Hagemann will take over the artistic direction of the joint university choir of the universities of church music in Rottenburg and Tübingen. In doing so, he creates a platform for diverse musical developments.

Setting the course for the future

But what can students expect at the university? In order to qualify for choir conducting, applicants must pass various aptitude tests, as described on the website Detmold University of Music described. These consist of conducting rehearsals, singing recitals and other tests that focus on technical skills. A failed part leads to the end of the exam immediately.

Students have the opportunity to prove themselves in the classroom examination, for example by leading a choir rehearsal or conducting a given piece. This gives them the chance to show their talents in a professional environment and gain valuable experience.

With Hagemann at the helm, the University of Church Music in Rottenburg-Stuttgart is facing crucial developments. His experiences and innovative approaches could create new perspectives for the future of church music in the region.