kyiv.Ukraine.Ukraine Gate – November 28,2021- Angela Merkel chose a 1970s punk rock song from the German Democratic Republic at the traditional farewell party for the chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, as well as a score for the legendary German singer Hildegard Knife.
It is noteworthy that counselors traditionally choose three pieces of music for the farewell ceremony.
The ceremony will take place on December 2 in the courtyard of the Ministry of Defense in Berlin. The orchestra of the Bundeswehr (German armed forces) will perform the composition “Für mich soll’s rote Rosen regnen” (“It will rain for me from red roses”) by the German actress and singer Knef, as well as “Du hast den Farbfilm vergessen” (“You have forgotten”) – the hit of the 1970s, who made the punk rock singer Hagen famous. In addition, the musicians must play “Großer Gott, wir loben Dich” (“Big God, we praise you”) – a Christian hymn, a paraphrase of Te Deum, the words of which were written by Ignaz Franz, a German Catholic priest and theologian of the 18th century.
In connection with the coronavirus pandemic, Merkel’s departure from the post of German Chancellor will be held in a rather chamber format – about 200 guests have been invited, including 52 ministers who were part of the government at different stages of her reign, as well as other members of her team. Merkel will deliver a short speech. The traditional reception after the official farewell ceremony will not take place.
The military ceremonial act of seeing off “Der Große Zapfenstreich” is considered the highest respect that the German armed forces can give to a civilian. In addition to chancellors, this custom is also used to honor the presidents and defense ministers of the Federal Republic of Germany after their release from office. The tradition goes back to the 16th century. The ceremony always takes place in the evening and is accompanied by several musical compositions, including the national anthem and a march. In addition, torches are traditionally lit.
