A detailed description of the competition categories can also be found in the booklet available for download:
Participant Information

Evaluation Performance

For non-competing choirs

Choirs will sing a program of three pieces for a maximum performance time of 15 minutes in front of a panel of international experts. At the conclusion of the program there will be a brief internal consultation of the panel of choral experts. Finally, the program will be discussed with the choir in an open and amicable atmosphere.

Performance coaching and recommendations will be given for future participation in international competitions. The choirs will receive an official certificate of participation.

For competing choirs

Competing choirs have the chance to present their competition program (in case of several categories a selection from the program) to the jury. They will get immediate positive artistic and pedagogical advice for improvement and the evaluation does not involve preliminary decisions regarding the competition result.

Individual Coaching

All participants, whether taking part in the competitions or not, are given the opportunity to participate with their choir in a session with a noted international choir director.

Choirs interested in making use of this opportunity are required to prepare one piece of choral music. An international renowned choral music expert will then rehearse the piece with the choir to provide new artistic ideas and impetus. Choirs not participating in the competition will be presented a certificate and a recommendation for their future participation in international choral competitions.

Participating choirs may register to perform together with other international choirs. Choirs must prepare approximately 15 minutes of their own music pre-approved by the Artistic Committee. The concert should be preferably a cappella or with own instruments. Piano or digital piano can be provided upon request.

Please be aware that several Friendship Concerts are planned open air. In the event that weather conditions do not allow this, some concerts may be cancelled due to the weather. The organizers will do their best to find suitable alternative arrangements whenever possible, although alternative performances cannot always be guaranteed.

Choirs can also take part in Friendship Concerts only.

Latvia is renowned far beyond its borders for its deep-rooted and vibrant choral culture. Singing is part of the nation's identity – celebrated in the legendary Latvian Song and Dance Festival and carried forward by generations of passionate musicians. Contemporary Latvian composers are performed and admired worldwide, enriching international concert programs with their distinctive sound and emotional depth. Among the most prominent are Ēriks Ešenvalds, Pēteris Vasks, Rihards Dubra. Their works are sung by leading choirs across the globe, captivating audiences with luminous harmonies, spiritual intensity, and poetic expression.

Latvia is home to many internationally active and highly respected conductors. One of the most influential figures in Latvian choral history is Imants Kokars (1921–2011).

Imants Kokars was a visionary conductor, educator, and driving force behind the development of Latvia’s choral tradition in the 20th century. As the long-time artistic leader of major choirs and a key personality of the Latvian Song Festival movement, he shaped generations of singers and conductors. His artistic excellence and dedication significantly contributed to the international recognition of Latvian choral music. Kokars was widely honored for his cultural impact and remains a symbol of artistic integrity and national musical pride.

In memory of this extraordinary musician SING FOR GOLD Riga proudly presents the Imants Kokars Choral Award.

This special distinction is awarded for the best interpretation of a work by a Latvian composer, celebrating artistic excellence while encouraging choirs to engage deeply with Latvia's rich and inspiring repertoire.

The award is endowed with a cash prize of €1000.