In ancient times, the term “chorós” referred to a group of performers who sang and moved at the same time. Inspired by this artistic unity of music and movement, Anne Kohler and the National Youth Choir of Germany blend singing with scenic performance. Together with choreographer Gabriel Galindez Cruz, they explore the possibilities of peaceful coexistence and ask whether peace, respect, and tolerance can become a reality or remain an illusion.

“The highest good for mortals is peace” – this admonition was set to music by the Renaissance composer Guillaume Dufay in his motet for Sigismund's coronation as German Emperor in 1433. With Hanns Eisler’s “Gegen den Krieg” and Arnold Schönberg’s “Friede auf Erden”, the National Youth Choir of Germany places two milestones of modern choral music at the centre of a programme that highlights the enduring theme of human conflict throughout the ages. The Estonian composer Veljo Tormis’ “Raua needmine / Curse upon Iron” directly reflects the political climate of the early 1970s. This archaic-sounding piece, written for two male solo voices, mixed choir and percussion, warns of the evil bound in iron that threatens to turn against humanity and destroy it. The group of young singers becomes an integral part of this ritual act.