Beloved Cork International Choral Festival hits major milestone
Daniel O’Neill
One of Cork’s most well-attended festivals is revving up for its 70th anniversary celebration after it was launched last night in the city.
This May Bank Holiday, the Cork International Choral Festival will host choirs from across the country and the world in one of Europe’s most prestigious choral events.
Lasting from 30 April to 4 May, the celebrations promise 5 days of music and connection across the city and county. Shows will be held across 90 venues with thousands visiting the city.
Artistic Director Peter Stobart said: “Reaching our 70th edition is a testament to the enduring love of choral music in Cork and its power to bring people together. This year’s programme honours our heritage while embracing innovation, with extraordinary voices, stunning venues, and exciting collaborations that promise to make 2025 a truly unforgettable celebration.”
The festival offers a variety of fun attractions like gala concerts, competitions, workshops, fringe events, and free public performances suitable for all ages. The event is perfect for young children as well as fans who have been supporting the festival since its debut.
The festival kicks off with Elgar’s ‘The Dream of Gerontius’ performed by the Cork Fleischmann Symphony Orchestra, East Cork Choral Society, and The Guinness Choir at Cork City Hall on 30 April. The festival will then launch some of its most notable events like the iconic Afternoons in the Atrium series at the Clayton Hotel on 3 May and 4 May and the beloved Cobh Fringe Festival which has choirs perform in atmospheric locations like St Colman’s Cathedral, Christ Church and several local schools. There will also be a performance suitable for all ages at The Marina Market for the first time on 3 May.
One of the fan favourite events is the Fleischmann International Trophy Competition which gets the best amateur choirs from around the world to go face to face in hopes of winning. Denmark’s Syng Selected comprised of 31 of the country’s most talented young singers will take to the stage at Cork City Hall. Founded by the Danish Youth Choral Association in 2014, the group has quickly become a leading voice in the Nordic vocal music scene.
The winning piece from the Seán Ó Riada Composition Competition will also get a moment to shine at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral. The performance is promised to be deeply moving and is a must see for all music fans.
The festival will be brought to an end with Ireland’s Choir of the Year Award. The event is sure to shine a light on the nation’s finest choral talent and is the perfect way to end the festival’s 70th anniversary. The competition is sure to inspire young talent and encourage them to take part in choir singing, as well as show all generations that Ireland’s choral talent is still present after all these years.
The Cork International Choral Festival is supported by The Arts Council, Fáilte Ireland, Cork City Council, and Cork County Council. Tickets are available at www.corkchoral.ie.