Lord Mayor Dominik Krause congratulates Munich yodelling teacher Gertraud Siferlinger on her 60th birthday

Munich's Lord Mayor, Dominik Krause, has congratulated Gertraud Siferlinger on her forthcoming 60th birthday, sending his good wishes on behalf of the city council and personally, and praising her many years of work to make Bavarian culture visible and accessible in Munich.

In his message, Krause highlighted her popular yodelling courses and her work as musical director for Bavarian Television, saying she manages to inspire people of all ages with enthusiasm for Bavaria's traditions. He described her teaching methods as a model for many and her courses as both instructive and full of infectious energy, saying she gives people the feeling that "anyone can yodel!"

The Lord Mayor also pointed to her own television programme, "Wirtshausmusikanten" (Tavern Musicians), which she has presented for years. He said it gives many Munich music groups a platform to show their skills to a wide audience.

Siferlinger also contributes to the city's cultural life at Christmas. Through the project "Singen unterm Christbaum" (Singing under the Christmas Tree), she leads members of the public in singing Bavarian and German Christmas carols in front of St Michael's Church at the Christmas market. Krause said the tradition brings people together and creates community and encounters, as well as invaluable moments in challenging times.

Her work has already been recognised with the Medal of Honour for Services to Folk Culture in Munich in 2017 and the Bavarian Order of Merit in 2024. Krause thanked her for her tireless commitment and wished her all the best for the year ahead, above all good health, personal wellbeing and continued enjoyment of her musical projects.