AI – Open Competition

In the spirit of "Participation is the highest honor", choirs from all over the world, regardless of their present level of achievement, have the opportunity to participate in the Open Competition to gather valuable experience in international competition.

AII - Champions Competition

This competition level is open to African and Asia Pacific choirs with international competitive experience and/or comparable credentials. Participation is by decision of the Artistic Committee.

AIII - Grand Prix of Nations

The Grand Prix of Nations is open to choirs from all over the world that have corresponding international competitive experience and that have proven their abilities in international choral competitions. Participation is by decision of the Artistic Committee.

A detailed description of the competition categories can also be found in the booklet available for download:
Participant Information(5 MB)

BI - Evaluation Performance

for non-competing choirs

This level of participation is available to choirs who choose not to be placed in competition, but seek to be part of the international experience of the event.

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 is 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.

BII - 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 internationally respected choral music expert will then rehearse the piece with the choir to provide new artistic ideas and impetus. Choirs not participating in the competition are presented a certificate and a recommendation for their future participation in international choral competitions.

CI - Friendship Concerts

In addition to their competitive or non-competitive participation, choirs may perform in a Friendship Concert with other choirs in public venues in and around the city of Aarhus.

These free public concerts provide opportunity for each choir to present musical traditions and costumes of their native land. Choirs, instrumental groups, and dance companies not participating in any other category may also register to participate solely in multiple Friendship Concerts.

CII - Festival Stage Choir

As artistic highlight of the event a festive performance of a selection of traditional and international choral symphonic pieces will be performed at the Closing Concert.

During your stay obligatory rehearsal sessions will take place. Choirs interested in participating in this concert are invited to register for it. However, the Artistic Committee has final approval on selection of choirs who must rehearse independently and arrive prepared for massed rehearsal.

Choirs may also only participate in Friendship Concerts and/or the Festival Stage Choir performance.