Consortium Vocale Oslo
Consortium Vocale Oslo, founded in 1985, is a male vocal ensemble based at Oslo Cathedral. Since 1998 the ensemble has specialized in Gregorian chant under the direction of Alexander M. Schweitzer. Under Schweitzer’s guidance the group has dedicated itself to the palaeographic study of medieval manuscripts, to an appropriation of the theological-spiritual dimension of the Gregorian repertoire, and to an interpretation of Gregorian chant according to semiological principles.
Japan Tour April 2026
A highlight of this season will be our long-planned trip to Japan, where Consortium Vocale will perform in Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima. We are happy to have with us saxophonist Hugo Siegmeth. Our conductor Alexander M. Schweitzer will lead the performances.
The origin of Gregorian chant
The Gregorian melodies have their roots in the Jewish synagogue service. Simple psalm recitations and prayers were adopted into the Christian liturgy. As early as the fourth century AD we find evidence for the antiphonal singing of psalms (alternating between two choirs) and for responsorial singing (between a precentor and a schola). Gregorian melodies developed largely out of these liturgical recitatives, and in particular from the psalmody.
