The Escolania of Montserrat - The oldest in Europe
Montserrat, Barcelona, Spain · 14th century
The Montserrat Escolania is one of the oldest chorus schools in Europe. Founded in the 14th century, it has kept alive the tradition of Gregorian singing for more than six centuries.
The story
La Escolania was founded in the 14th century as a choir of the Benedictine monks of Montserrat. Originally, the children sang in the liturgy of the monastery. Over time, Escolania became an independent school, forming the best singers in Catalonia.
La Escolania has survived all the destruction of the monastery. During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), the children were evacuated and the choir remained in exile. When the monastery was rebuilt, the Escolania returned to its place.
«La Escolania es la voz de Montserrat. Cuando los niños cantan, la Virgen sonríe.»
— Abad de MontserratChildren
The Escolania is composed of about 50 children between the ages of 9 and 14. They are selected for their musical talent and artistic sensitivity. They study in a school within the monastery, where they receive musical, acadolic and spiritual formation.
The children sing every day at the Basilica of the monastery, during Mass and Vespers. His song is one of the most emotional experiences of the pilgrimage to Montserrat.
El repertorio
La Escolania sings a repertoire that includes:
Gregorian song: The oldest tradition of the choir. Children sing hymns and antiphons in Latin, following the Benedictine tradition.
Renaissance music: Works by composers such as Palestrina, Victoria and Morales.
Contemporary music: Works by Catalan and Spanish composers.
El «Salve»: The Marian salve that the Escolania sings every day at 13: 00, before the image of the Moreneta.
Las grabaciones
La Escolania has made numerous recordings of sacred music, which have been internationally recognized. His records have sold millions of copies around the world.
«Cuando la Escolania canta, el cielo se abre. Los ángeles escuchan con deleite la voz de estos niños.»
- Pilgrim of Montserrat