172 CultureShock! Austria
performances are in German, although some may be in
their original language with electronic German subtitles. The
Volksoper also provides about 100 Stehplätze.Vienna Boys’ Choir and Church Music
Perhaps Vienna’s best-known symbol is the Vienna Boys’
Choir. Founded by Emperor Maximilian I in 1498, it has
continued to this day with only a small break between 1918
and 1924. Choir members perform mass at the Burgkapelle in
the Hofburg every Sunday from mid-September to June. They
are a pure joy to hear, but if you’d rather not be surrounded
by tourists, there are a number of other churches where you
can attend mass and hear beautiful music.
The Augustinerkirche (part of the Hofburg), the
Universitätskirche, Saint Michael’s and Stephansdom, all
in the old centre, feature a mass on Sundays and holy days
with either an orchestra, quartet and/or choir. The first three
churches may also be crowded at the height of the tourist
season, but many Viennese do attend these masses, giving
a sense of normalcy. The Stephansdom, however, tends to
be overrun by tourists, even though attempts are made at
keeping pure sightseers in the back. Susan once attended
Sunday mass here and was shocked to witness a woman near
her being photographed receiving communion. Churches are
not well heated in winter so be sure to dress warmly.Classical Music for the Novice
Programmes designed for tourists delight audiences with
well-known classical pieces by performers in period costume.
They are light-hearted and entertaining, while they maintain
the high quality found in the somewhat more serious regular
season performances. If you want an easy introduction to
classical music, these performances are for you. Keep in
mind, however, that some of these shows are held only during
the height of the tourist season.
Mozart’s best-loved works are magically presented at the
Musikverein about three times weekly during the summer.
Works of Mozart and Strauss are performed at the Orangerie
at Schönbrunn Palace, complete with professional dancers.