The DOKU-Chor led by Cornelius Neitsch was at home in the DOKU Blumentthal, a documentation centre in North Bremen. The "choir" was a handful of mostly beginners but I was quite happy to take part when joining them in January, 2000. Completely different from the formal Collegium Musicum Bremen, the atmosphere was absolutely informal. New for me was being required to sway and make odd dance steps whilst singing. This took place before a mirror covered wall such as that found in dance studios.
I had only taken part in rehearsals for maybe three or four times when I received a phone call from Herr Neitsch saying that he could not continue and whether I would take over the choir. I never understood why he made such a request as I was and still am completely unqualified for such a task. A choir leader I am not!
I went to the DOK in Blumenthal to inform the members of Neitsch's decision. After a brief discussion we agreed to disband.. One of the members opined that we were simply not good enough. This was a typical bad choir experiences much toted in German and Norwegian Shape Note circles
I am grateful for the experience however. I learned the value of singing before a mirror and simply loved Epo i tai tai eh! which I then introduced to the The Vegesack Whalermen.