On Monday evening, May 5, 2025, Olaf Scholz, the outgoing Chancellor of Germany, will be honored with a traditional Großen Zapfenstreich, a ceremonial military farewell that dates back to the 16th century. This event, held at the Bundeswehr's Defense Ministry in Berlin, marks the end of Scholz's tenure as he transitions to a regular member of the Bundestag, following the anticipated election of Friedrich Merz, the leader of the CDU, as the new Chancellor on May 6.
Scholz has chosen a unique blend of music for his farewell ceremony, which includes three pieces: "In My Life" by The Beatles, an excerpt from Johann Sebastian Bach's Second Brandenburg Concerto, and "Respect" by Aretha Franklin. This selection reflects both personal significance and broader themes from his political career.
The first song, "In My Life," is a classic from The Beatles' 1965 album "Rubber Soul." The song is a poignant reflection on the importance of relationships, highlighting how memories of significant people fade when one thinks of their true love. This choice could be seen as a subtle tribute to Scholz's wife, Britta Ernst, emphasizing the personal connections that have shaped his life.
Next, Scholz requested an excerpt from Bach's Second Brandenburg Concerto, a piece that not only showcases his appreciation for classical music but also serves as a nod to his roots in Brandenburg, where he resides and represents in the Bundestag. This choice is somewhat unconventional for a modern political farewell, yet it underscores Scholz's serious and thoughtful demeanor.
The final piece, "Respect," is a powerful anthem originally performed by Otis Redding and later popularized by Aretha Franklin in 1967. The song's themes of recognition and acknowledgment resonate deeply with Scholz, who has frequently mentioned feeling that he has not received enough respect from the public and his coalition partners during his time in office. The refrain, "All I'm askin' is for a little respect," encapsulates a recurring message in his political campaigns, particularly in the elections of 2021 and 2025.
As the Bundeswehr's Stabsmusikkorps prepares to perform these selected pieces, the ceremony promises to be a reflective moment for Scholz, who has led the country through challenging times. The Großen Zapfenstreich is not only a farewell but also a recognition of the contributions made by high-ranking officials and military leaders.
Scholz's predecessor, Angela Merkel, had her own memorable farewell ceremony in December 2021, where she chose songs that included "Für mich soll's rote Rosen regnen" by Hildegard Knef, the church hymn "Großer Gott, wir loben Dich," and the DDR hit "Du hast den Farbfilm vergessen" by Nina Hagen. Merkel's choices highlighted her personal narrative and the cultural landscape of her time in office.
As the event approaches, public attention is drawn not only to the music but also to the ceremonial aspects of the Großen Zapfenstreich. The ceremony includes a formal march, the playing of the national anthem, and the lighting of torches, creating a solemn atmosphere that honors the departing Chancellor. The ARD will broadcast the ceremony live, providing a platform for viewers to witness this significant moment in German political history.
Scholz's selection of music reflects his character and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. It serves as a reminder of the personal and political journeys that define a leader's time in office. As he steps down, the themes of love, respect, and personal connection resonate not only through the chosen songs but also in the memories he leaves with the German people.
In the days leading up to the ceremony, Scholz has expressed a mix of emotions, recognizing the weight of the moment and the transition ahead. The Großen Zapfenstreich will not only signify the end of his chancellorship but also mark a new chapter in his political life as he returns to the Bundestag as a regular member.
As Friedrich Merz prepares to take the reins as the new Chancellor, the political landscape of Germany is poised for change. The transition from Scholz to Merz represents not just a shift in leadership but also an opportunity for new policies and approaches to governance. The upcoming election is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the forefront of German politics.
In summary, as Olaf Scholz bids farewell with a carefully curated musical selection, the Großen Zapfenstreich serves as a moment of reflection and recognition for a leader who has navigated complex challenges. The ceremony will be a fitting tribute to his time in office, encapsulating the essence of his leadership and the connections he has forged along the way.
