■ Kammersänger Helmut Klotz Helmut Klotz, originally a cellist in the renowned State Orchesta of Saxony in Dresden, began his career as singer in 1961 in Leipzig and was member of the Leipzig Opera for over 40 years, appearing as a lyrical and character tenor. His extensive repertoire includes more then 100 roles which he has sung in more than 2750 performances. In 1985 he was honored with the title Kammersänger, the highest one for a Singer in Germany. Since 1972 he has been artistic director, conductor and soloist of the Leipziger Synagogalchor. Under his leadership, the choir developed to an ensemble of international acclaim, winning over many listeners through its high artistic quality of performing Jewish music. KS Helmut Klotz has received the highest awards from the City of Leipzig (Ehrenmedaille der Stadt Leipzig, 1998), the State of Saxony (Verdienstorden des Freistaates Sachsen, 1998), the former National Government of Eastern Germany (Kunstpreis der DDR, 1981 and Stern der Völkerfreundschaft in Gold, 1988) and the Government of the United Germany (Grosse Verdienstordens der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, 2005). Last but not least, for his important work with Jewish music and for his activities in promoting Israel- German friendship, he was inscribed in the Golden Book of the Jewish National Fund in Jerusalem.