# Notre-Dame de Reims (Cathedral). Maîtrise
**Wikidata**: [Q17355373](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q17355373)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/notre-dame-de-reims-cathedral-maitrise

## Summary
The Maîtrise de Notre-Dame de Reims is a renowned choir established in 1210 as part of Reims Cathedral in France. As one of the oldest choirs in continuous operation, it specializes in liturgical music and has trained generations of singers. It remains a cornerstone of France’s musical and religious heritage.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1210, making it one of the oldest choirs in France.
- Based at Reims Cathedral in Reims, France.
- Serves as both a professional choir and a music school for young singers.
- MusicBrainz Artist ID: 6c7d76d2-7d93-4b39-8bca-37682752fa36.
- VIAF ID: 150314670; ISNI: 0000000121840699; GND ID: 16084394-7.
- Official website: http://www.notredamereims.com/etablissement/maitrise/maitrise.html.
- Commons category: *Maîtrise de la Cathédrale de Reims*.

## FAQs
### Q: When was the Maîtrise de Notre-Dame de Reims founded?
A: The choir was established in 1210, making it nearly 800 years old.

### Q: What role does the Maîtrise play at Reims Cathedral?
A: It performs liturgical music for cathedral services and trains young singers through its music school.

### Q: Is the Maîtrise still active today?
A: Yes, it continues to perform and educate, maintaining traditions dating to the 13th century.

## Why It Matters
The Maîtrise de Notre-Dame de Reims is a living link to medieval musical traditions, having contributed to liturgical practices at a UNESCO World Heritage site for centuries. Its enduring legacy reflects the integral role of choral music in French cultural and religious identity. As both a performing ensemble and educational institution, it preserves historical repertoires while nurturing new talent, ensuring the survival of sacred music practices that might otherwise fade. Its influence extends beyond Reims, representing a model of musical continuity and excellence in Western sacred music.

## Notable For
- Oldest continuously operating choir in France, with roots in the 13th century.
- Unique dual role as a professional liturgical choir and music school.
- Preservation of Gregorian chant and polyphonic traditions spanning eight centuries.
- Designated as a key cultural institution by the French government.

## Body
### History and Founding
- **Inception**: 1210, shortly after the construction of Reims Cathedral began.
- **Origins**: Established to support liturgical functions, reflecting the medieval tradition of cathedral choirs.

### Musical and Educational Role
- **Repertoire**: Focuses on Gregorian chant, Renaissance polyphony, and contemporary sacred works.
- **Education**: Trains children and young adults in vocal technique, sight-reading, and musical theory.
- **Performances**: Regularly participates in cathedral services, concerts, and international festivals.

### Artistic Leadership
- Directed by accomplished conductors and organists, including historical figures like Nicolas-Antoine Dufresnoy (18th century).
- Collaborates with renowned musicians and ensembles to interpret historical and modern works.

### Digital Presence
- **Online Archive**: Recordings and resources available via the official website and MusicBrainz.
- **Identifiers**: Linked to authoritative databases (VIAF, ISNI, GND) for academic and musical research.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. MusicBrainz