Proud Hermanus Old Scholar Reaches New Heights in Opera

The Hermanus Old Scholars Bond is delighted to celebrate the remarkable achievements of one of our own, Albert Horne, who has been appointed as the new Chordirektor (Choir Director) at the prestigious Deutsche Oper am Rhein (German Opera on the Rhein) in Düsseldorf, Germany.

A native South African and proud alumnus of Hermanus High School (often affectionately referred to as an "old Hermanuser"), Albert brings a wealth of talent, passion, and dedication to one of Europe's leading opera houses. He succeeds Gerhard Michalski, who retired in 2025, and has already earned high praise for his leadership of the opera's chorus.

In a recent interview, Albert expressed his deep respect for the challenges of the role: “Da muss man Titan in der Kehle haben” (“You need to have a Titan in your throat”). He has highlighted the exceptional quality of the choir — describing the singers as “unfassbar gute Sänger” (incredibly good singers) who are highly versatile, performing everything from Verdi and Puccini to Wagner, while acting, dancing, and switching repertoires at a demanding pace.

Albert’s journey is deeply rooted in his South African heritage. Growing up in a family that loved classical music and opera, he began as a piano accompanist for opera chorus rehearsals at a young age. He went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, served as Chorus Master and Conductor at Cape Town Opera (where the chorus was named “Chorus of the Year” under his leadership), and built an international career as a conductor and accompanist.

Now based in Germany, where he has lived for over a decade, Albert is excited about upcoming productions such as Verdi’s Il trovatore and Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg. His warm, collaborative style and high standards are already making a positive impact on the ensemble.

We at the Hermanus Old Scholars Bond extend our warmest congratulations to Albert on this prestigious appointment. Your success is a shining example of the talent and ambition nurtured in Hermanus, and we are incredibly proud to call you one of our own. We look forward to following your continued achievements on the international stage!

Hermanus Old Scholars Bond – Celebrating our alumni’s successes worldwide.