The international choir festival, formerly known as Sing’n’Pray Kobe, is entering a new chapter in 2026. Now called Sing from Kobe, the event opens its arms wider than ever before — inviting choirs from across Japan, Asia, and the world to share their voices in a fresh, inclusive choral celebration.

New name: Sing from Kobe 2026

The new name reflects what participating choirs have already experienced at the past three editions: the joy and diversity of choral singing shared from the city of Kobe with the world. It also brings the event’s inclusive and welcoming spirit for choirs of all backgrounds and musical styles to the forefront.”

In order to display this welcoming spirit, the Artistic Committee has decided to offer a much wider range of categories to the participating choirs to choose from in 2026:

• Category A – Adult Choirs (Mixed or Equal Voices)
• Category V – Vocal Ensembles (Mixed or Equal Voices)
• Category G - Children's & Youth Choirs
  • G1 - Children's Choirs
  • G2 - Youth Choirs
• Category SE – Senior Choirs
• Category R – Religious Music
• Category F – Folklore

This variety allows for a more tailored and meaningful competition experience for every ensemble.

New highlight: Grand Prize Competition for the Kobe Choir Prize 2026

A major innovation in 2026 is the Grand Prize Competition that will happen for the first time at the Kobe international choir competition. All category winners will be invited to perform once more to compete for the Kobe Choir Prize 2026. The international jury may also nominate outstanding ensembles beyond the winners to join this special final round.

More learning: Evaluation Performances and educational opportunities

“Sing from Kobe” reinforces a strong educational mission with enhanced opportunities for musical growth:

• Evaluation Performances for non-competing choirs offer valuable feedback in a friendly, non-competitive setting.
• Evaluation Performances for competing choirs allow groups to present their programs to the jury before the contest, receiving immediate artistic and pedagogical insights without affecting the final results.

What stays the same: Pray from Kobe Concert

While “Sing from Kobe” embraces new ideas and formats, much-loved traditions such as the “Pray from Kobe” concert at the prestigious Kobe Bunka Hall will remain an essential part of the event, continuing to highlight the city’s spirit of peace and unity through choral music.

Join in!

Sing from Kobe is inviting from Japan, Asia and all over the world to take the stage to grow, connect, and share your music with the world.

Visit our website for more information and registration details! 

Sing from Kobe 2026