Escolanía del Escorial is a classical music ensemble that has been enchanting audiences with its beautiful choral music for over 450 years. Founded in 1567 by King Philip II of Spain, the ensemble is based in the Royal Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, near Madrid. The ensemble is made up of boys aged between 8 and 18, who are selected through a rigorous audition process. The boys receive a comprehensive musical education, which includes singing, music theory, and instrumental training. They also attend regular academic classes at the monastery's school. The Escolanía has a long and illustrious history, having performed for many important events and dignitaries over the centuries. One of its most famous performances was at the coronation of King Philip III in 1598, where the ensemble sang a specially composed motet by Tomás Luis de Victoria. Over the years, the Escolanía has also performed for many popes, including Pope John Paul II, who visited the monastery in 1982. The ensemble has also performed for other important figures, such as Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, and the King and Queen of Spain. The Escolanía has also received many awards and accolades over the years. In 1998, the ensemble was awarded the Gold Medal for Fine Arts by the Spanish government, in recognition of its contribution to the country's cultural heritage. In 2011, the Escolanía was awarded the National Music Prize by the Spanish Ministry of Culture, in recognition of its outstanding contribution to the world of music. One of the highlights of the Escolanía's calendar is its annual Christmas concert, which takes place in the monastery's basilica. The concert is a much-loved tradition, and attracts visitors from all over the world. The ensemble also performs regularly throughout the year, both in Spain and abroad. The Escolanía's repertoire is wide-ranging, and includes both sacred and secular music. The ensemble is particularly renowned for its performances of Renaissance and Baroque music, and has recorded many albums of this repertoire. The ensemble has also collaborated with many famous musicians and conductors, including Jordi Savall, Gustavo Dudamel, and Plácido Domingo. Despite its long history, the Escolanía is a forward-looking ensemble, and is constantly seeking to innovate and evolve. In recent years, the ensemble has embraced new technologies, and has used social media to reach new audiences around the world. The ensemble has also collaborated with contemporary composers, and has premiered many new works. The Escolanía is a unique and special ensemble, with a rich history and a bright future. Its beautiful music and talented young singers continue to captivate audiences around the world, and it is sure to remain a beloved institution for many years to come.

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