Andreas Mölder Appointed New Cathedral Music Director of Freiburg
Freiburg, Germany – Following a period of controversy and transition, the Archdiocese of Freiburg has announced the appointment of Andreas Mölder as the new Domkapellmeister (Cathedral Music Director). The appointment,made public on January 30,2026,fills a position left vacant after the contentious departure of Boris Böhmann in 2025.
background: The Böhmann Controversy
The dismissal of Boris Böhmann, the long-time director of the Freiburg Cathedral Choir School, sparked widespread debate and protest. Böhmann was terminated by the archdiocese in February 2025, citing years of disagreements Freiburg Tourism.A settlement was reached between Böhmann and the diocese in April 2025,but not before protests erupted during Christmas services in December 2024,leading to Böhmann’s immediate suspension on december 30th.These protests stemmed from strong support for Böhmann within the choir and the wider community.
Following his dismissal, Böhmann founded a new choral academy with support from many former choir members, signaling a notable division within the musical community.
Andreas Mölder: A new Chapter for Freiburg’s Cathedral Music
Andreas Mölder, born in 1988, secured the position after a multi-stage selection process. He previously served as the director of the Freiburg Cathedral Boys’ Choir, demonstrating his experience and commitment to the region’s musical tradition. The archdiocese believes Mölder’s leadership will help to heal divisions and usher in a new era for the Cathedral’s musical program.
Mölder’s Experience and Vision
While details of Mölder’s specific plans for the Cathedral’s music program have not yet been fully released,his prior work with the Freiburg Cathedral Boys’ Choir suggests a dedication to maintaining high musical standards and fostering a vibrant choral environment. He is expected to address the challenges created by the previous year’s events and rebuild unity within the choir.
Looking Ahead
The appointment of Andreas Mölder marks a turning point for the Freiburg cathedral’s musical future. The archdiocese and the community will be watching closely to see how Mölder navigates the complexities of the position and restores harmony to the Cathedral’s renowned musical tradition. The coming months will be crucial in rebuilding trust and fostering a collaborative environment for the choir and the wider musical community of Freiburg.
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