Vox Lucensis 2026: International Choir Competition opens in Lucca
20 choirs from 12 nations join the event in Italy
Lucca once again becomes a meeting place for choral music from around the world as the 5th International Choir Competition “Vox Lucensis” opens today. From 28 to 31 March 2026, nearly 1,000 singers from twelve countries gather in this historic Tuscan city to celebrate artistic excellence and international exchange through choral singing.
Organized by INTERKULTUR in cooperation with the “Luigi Boccherini” State Conservatory of Music and the Parish Community of Lucca’s historic centre, the competition has firmly established itself as a highlight in the international choral calendar. Artistic direction is led by Sara Matteucci, whose strong connection to the local music scene shapes the character of the event.
The Opening Concert takes place this evening in the Basilica of San Paolino. A joint performance by two local ensembles — the Coro Giovanile del Conservatorio “Boccherini” e il Coro Femminile del Liceo Musicale “Passaglia” — sets the tone with the motet Vox Lucensis, composed especially for the festival by Lucchese composer Saverio Rapezzi. The ceremony continues with a collective musical moment, bringing together all participating choirs in a shared performance, reflecting the spirit of unity that defines the event.
The Opening Concert is dedicated to a message that reaches beyond music. In a time marked by global challenges, the united voices stand as a sign of dialogue, mutual listening, and peaceful coexistence. Through singing together, the participating choirs express a shared belief that cultural exchange can build bridges and strengthen understanding between people.
Over the coming days, choirs will compete in a variety of categories, both a cappella and with instrumental accompaniment, including sacred music, youth choirs, and chamber choirs. Performances will take place in the Church of San Pietro Somaldi and at the Conservatory’s Auditorium del Suffragio, with free admission for audiences.
The competition concludes on 31 March with the Grand Prix final at the Church of San Francesco, where the best choirs from the competition will sing once again for the Vox Lucensis 2026 Grand Prize.
With participants from Europe, Asia, and the Americas, Vox Lucensis once again highlights how choral music connects cultures and creates meaningful encounters beyond borders.
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