Saint Ephraim Male Choir was founded in 2002 and has gradually grown to be the most popular vocal ensemble in Hungary. The choir’s name comes from Saint Ephraim the Syrian (306-373), who was a celebrated hymn composer, aptly nicknamed “harp of the Holy Spirit” by his contemporaries.
Alongside maintaining the abundant musical heritage of Byzantine Christian music, the second main pillar of the choir’s profile grew to nurture the male choral music of Hungary’s grand masters. Having performed in various prestigious local as well as international festivals and concert venues, Saint Ephraim Male Choir’s unique sound became familiar to numerous contemporary composers, some of whom have written pieces specifically for the group. It has become their mission to perform contemporary music at all their concerts.
The group of eight singers perform regularly in Hungary and internationally as well as hosting an annual concert series named Orientale Lumen, where internationally renowned guests are also invited to contribute. Some of the members are aspiring composers themselves, often composing and rearranging pieces to expand the choir’s unique repertoire.
