He's from the land down under, but 8 Ball Aitken is making his rounds in the states and spreading his music to the masses. He did just that when he took the stage at Beethoven Maennerchor for First Friday. He's got a new album called The New Normal. 8 Ball is a one man band, using a repertoire of instruments, which include a tambourine he plays with his foot. And yes, he's even got a kazoo. 8 Ball will be playing SXSW, as well as the major Texas markets. Although he's a pretty quiet guy off stage, his style on stage is anything but. Playing over 200 gigs a year has given him a lot of practice at becoming the stage musician he is today. He wants to be memorable. He does have the number one album in Australia. Listen to our interview with 8 Ball to hear how his mom took the news. Learn more about 8 Ball at his website, 8BallAitken.com.
Oktoberfest In The Books
Volunteers spend hours on the food line serving thousands of visitors to Beethoven during the two-weekend Oktoberfest celebration. (Photo courtesy Gabby Mata, San Antonio Current)
San Antonio became a little more German ov…Read More
The Claus Connection
Beethoven's schedule of events continue strong during these final months of the year.
Even as members reflect on the dozens of get-togethers, birthday celebrations, large gatherings and the small, the calendar of upc…Read More
The Musical Whimsy of Beethoven Accompanist Jane May
Jane May has always been musical.
The Beethoven Maennerchor accompanist began playing the piano around the age of 5, although she said she begged her parents to start playing before that -- but they just didn't …Read More
First Friday Fee Increase
In an effort to streamline suggested donation prices at the gate, the Beethoven board of directors voted to increase the First Friday entry to $5.
The increase in price matches other popular Beethoven events such as Garten…Read More
Oktoberfest Kicks Off, One More Weekend Of Fun To Come!An authentic German Oktoberfest experience is like no other you will experience in San Antonio and surrounding areas. At Beethoven Maennerchor, it's always a good time. This year didn't disappoint.
Festivities got underway F…Read More
Beethoven Maennerchor is a non-profit, volunteer organization located in San Antonio's Historic King William neighborhood. Its purpose is to preserve German song, music, and language. It is the one of the oldest German singing societies in Texas.
The Beethoven Maennerchor has stood as a beacon of culture and heritage since its founding in July of 1867. The club features the men's choir, Maennerchor, women's choir, Damenchor, kid's choir, Kinderchor, and dance and concert bands.
Beethoven Maennerchor is filled with members dedicated to not only preserving Beethoven's legacy, but also working toward its future success. Answers to membership questions may be found in the appropriate sections of this site.