The European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025 are just around the corner, and the excitement is building by the hour. Choirs from around the world are making their final preparations to travel to Aarhus, Denmark, where music, culture, and community will converge in a celebration like no other. 

Let’s take this as an opportunity to go together through our checklist of the most important things to consider before you start your choir trip. The last few days before departure are crucial. This is the time to bring everything together — from your travel logistics to your mental focus — so you're ready to perform at your very best.

Make Sure Your Travel Plans Are Set

One of the first things to do in these final days is to double-check all travel details. That means confirming your transportation bookings, reviewing itineraries, and ensuring every group member knows the plan. Are your flights or trains confirmed? Do you have transportation arranged from the airport to your hotel or hostel in Aarhus? Are all passports and travel documents up to date?

If possible, print copies of your bookings and keep them in a binder. Also, save digital versions to your phone or cloud storage for quick access. Having both will give you peace of mind in case of delays or connectivity issues.

Accommodation and Daily Schedule

Your accommodation and schedule have been carefully arranged by the event organizers. Before departure, take time to review your accommodation details — including check-in times, room assignments, and any special requirements your group may have communicated.

Once in Denmark, your focus should be on the music, not logistics. Check the official daily itinerary provided to you, which includes rehearsal times, soundchecks, competition slots, sightseeing opportunities, and more. Make sure your group is familiar with the plan so everyone can stay on time, relaxed, and ready to enjoy the experience.

Final Rehearsals: Less Is More

At this point, your repertoire should be fully prepared. Now is not the time to overhaul anything. Instead, use final rehearsals to refine the musical interpretation, work on dynamic control, intonation, and polish non-verbal communication between choir and conductor.

Running a mock performance under "competition conditions" — no stopping, minimal feedback until after — can be incredibly helpful. Record it if possible. This allows singers to get used to performance pressure and provides valuable insights for final tweaks.

Pack Smart: What Every Choir Member Needs

Packing lists matter more than you think. Here’s what every participant should have:

• Performance attire (clean and pressed!)
• Comfortable shoes
• Music folder or backup scores
• Personal medication and first aid basics
• A reusable water bottle and snacks
• Power adaptors and chargers
• Weather-appropriate clothing — Danish weather can change quickly!

Having your essentials covered means fewer distractions and a smoother experience in Aarhus.

Take Care of the Mind and Voice

The days before a major international event can be emotionally charged. Encourage your singers to stay well-rested, hydrated, and mentally focused. Gentle warm-ups, meditation, light vocalizing, and group check-ins can keep spirits high and minds calm.

Remind your ensemble that this is not only a competition — it’s a celebration of music and unity. Encourage open communication and mutual support so everyone feels included, empowered, and ready to shine.

Team Spirit and Shared Purpose

Hold a final group meeting where you reflect on your journey so far. Celebrate the milestones you’ve reached, discuss goals for the upcoming days, and reaffirm your choir’s values: joy, excellence, and connection. A choir that walks into a venue with unity and purpose will always stand out.

The countdown is almost over — and your moment is about to begin. Are you ready to be part of something extraordinary?

Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes moments, updates from Aarhus, and live inspiration from choirs around the world. Share your journey using #EuropeanChoirGames and become part of our global choral community.