From May 29 to June 1, Cambodia's capital hosts the First International Choir Competition Phnom Penh. This event is organized by INTERKULTUR in collaboration with the incoming agency All Dreams Cambodia and with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Information and the Municipality of Phnom Penh.

Bringing together 8 choirs and more than 200 participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia, the event takes place over four days. The festivities kicked off on May 29 with a Grand Opening Ceremony at the Chaktomuk Theatre, presided over by H.E. Dr Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture.

In front of an audience of over 400 guests, following the rendition of the Cambodian national anthem and a traditional classical dance demonstration of the Royal Ballet Tep Monurum, the Vice-Governor of Phnom Penh Municipality, Lok Chumteav Keo Sok Pisey, extended a warm welcome to all participants. Then it was the turn of H.E. Dr. Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment, to do the same, before underlining all the initiatives taken within the framework of the First International Choral Competition of Phnom Penh to make it an event committed to the environment and sustainable development. The floor was then given to Her Excellency Dr Phoeurng Sackona, who was delighted to declare the official opening of the First Phnom Penh International Choir Competition.

A brief speech of thanks from Mr. Johan Rooze, Senior Artistic Director and INTERKULTUR representative, set the stage for performances by several competing choirs, who delighted the guests with their songs and provided a preview of the musical variety to come in the following days.

Until June 1, the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) will host the First Phnom Penh 2024 International Choir Competition. In addition to the competition, open to the public and judged by a jury of international experts, two workshops led by the Swedish choral expert Peder Karlsson will offer valuable learning opportunities for choral conductors, singers and choirs of all levels, covering essential topics such as rhythm, intonation and innovative rehearsal techniques.

The First International Choir Competition Phnom Penh 2024 will conclude on June 1 with an Awards and Closing Ceremony at the ITC, during which the best performances will be recognized and celebrated. 

Follow the event on Facebook and Instagram for more photos, videos and stories!