Escolania de Montserrat — Boys' Choir Performance
The Escolania de Montserrat has been singing continuously since at least the 14th century, making it one of the oldest boys' choirs in Europe. Hearing them perform the Virolai or the Salve Regina inside the basilica — voices rising into the gilded vault — is the single most moving experience the mountain has to offer.
When & Where to Listen
The choir sings at the 13:00 Mass Monday through Friday and at the 12:00 and 18:45 Masses on Sundays throughout the academic year (mid-September to late June). The Sunday 18:45 Vespers is particularly magical: the basilica is lit by candles and the day-trippers have largely gone, leaving a more contemplative atmosphere.
Arrive at least 30 minutes early and take a seat in the main nave rather than the side aisles — the acoustics are centred on the crossing and the choir sings from the upper tribune above the altar.
Beyond the Basilica
The Escolania also records regularly and their CDs are sold in the monastery shop — a genuinely meaningful souvenir that supports the school directly. Look for their recording of the Montserrat Llibre Vermell, a collection of medieval pilgrimage songs unique to this monastery.
If you are travelling with children, the sight of boys their own age in Renaissance robes singing centuries-old polyphony tends to create a rare moment of genuine awe — and makes the whole visit suddenly click into context.
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