Concert by StEFREM chamber vocal ensemble

Hungary's most popular chamber vocal ensemble, StEFREM, was established in 2002 by Tamás Bubnó, a Hungarian Artist of Merit and Liszt Award laureate. The choir is named after Saint Ephraim the Syrian (306-373), a celebrated hymn composer known as the "harp of the Holy Spirit." This name also reflects their deep roots in Byzantine music, which was the backbone of their early repertoire.

During the first 10-15 years, the choir focused on establishing their unique style through Byzantine Christian music and works by Hungary's greatest composers, including Franz Liszt, Béla Bartók, and Zoltán Kodály. The rich and colorful sound of StEFREM attracted numerous contemporary composers, who wrote pieces specifically for the group. This affinity for modern music gradually led the choir members to create their own arrangements and refine their songwriting skills.

Today, with their unmistakable style, the StEFREM blends crossover, classical, pop, and folk music, featuring their own compositions and arrangements. Constantly experimenting with sound and effects, they’ve introduced instruments like the trumpet, accordion, guitar, and even electronic percussion, adding a spectacular twist to their live performances. This dynamic group of eight singers performs regularly in Hungary and internationally, enchanting audiences with their distinctive and innovative shows.

They have released 18 albums, produced numerous music videos, and maintain a strong social media presence with a keen and enthusiastic following. The choir continues to innovate and expand their repertoire, ensuring their place at the forefront of contemporary vocal ensembles.

Milestones
● 2002 – foundation of StEFREM (originally St Ephraim Male Choir)
● 2005 – János Boksay’s Liturgy for Male Choir is recorded and released
● 2006-2010 – international festival appearances and prizes (St Petersburg Summer Festival, Moscow; Hajnówka Music Festival, Poland; Ravenna Festival; Janacek May; Dvorák Festival; Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival; Donaufest-Ulm; MusikFestspiele Saar; Festival de Royaumont; Festival d’Auvers sur Oise)
● 2011 – Orientale lumen series begins
● 2012 – ’Cities’ series begins in Budapest Music Center
● 2013 – Rachmaninov’s All-Night Vigil at the Budapest Spring Festival
● 2014 – From One to Twelve – series commemorating Miklós Ybl
● 2015 – Bartók&Folk CD released
● 2016 – Joint concert with the King’s Singers (MüPa, Budapest)
● 2017 - Aldeburgh Festival, Artrium Contemporary Music Festival
● 2018 – Liszt Mosaics dance performance
● 2019 – Wings CD release, sold-out concert at the Liszt Music Academy
● 2020 – quarantine videos going viral – Pandémia, Türkisch
● 2021 – Bartók&Folk premiere
● 2022 - Jubilee Concert with Victor Solomon in Budapest
● 2023 - Performance of the Ukrainian Requiem, Christmas Lights album