CoDICF Programme Book 2025

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mm a gr 5 o r l P 202 a tiv Oct s Fe -26 22

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Welcome

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TICKETS

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FOREWORD

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WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER Festival Forum 2025 Conducting Masterclass A Night at the Opera with Festival Chorus, Ulster Orchestra, and Irish National Opera THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER Primary School Big Sing The Marian Consort

12 13 14 22 23

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER 28 Post-Primary School Competitions and Big Sing 30 Humanophones 32 Cathedral Light 20|25 with Codetta and New Dublin Voices

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER 36 National Competitions 39 Big Sing Workshop 41 International Competition

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER 42 National Competitions cont.

45 Closing Gala Concert and Awards Ceremony 46 Special Awards

COMMUNITY PROGRAMME 48 Community Concerts 51 Choral Trails 53 Sacred Trails BIOGRAPHIES Adjudicators International Choirs Evening Concert Presenters Funders, Sponsors, Partners and Festival Friends

55 61 67 70

AT-A-GLANCE FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

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Ticket Info Tickets available from the Millennium Forum Box Office Newmarket Street, Derry, Call +44 (0) 28 7126 4455 Book online: www.millenniumforum.co.uk (Booking fees apply)

EVENING CONCERTS WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER A Night at the Opera with Festival Chorus, Ulster Orchestra and Irish National Opera Millennium Forum, 19:30 £22 (full), £14 (concessionary), £8 (groups 10+) THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER The Marian Consort Guildhall, 19:30 £22 (full), £14 (concessionary), £8 (groups 10+) FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER Humanophones Millennium Forum, 19:30 £22 (full), £14 (concessionary), £8 (groups 10+) Cathedral Light 20|25 with Codetta and New Dublin Voices St. Eugene’s Cathedral, 22:00 Retiring collection on the door SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER International Competition Guildhall, 20:00 £15 (full), £10 (concessionary), £6 (groups 10+) SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER Closing Gala Concert and Awards Millennium Forum, 20:00 £15 (full), £10 (concessionary), £6 (groups 10+)

FULL FESTIVAL PASS

All events £100 (full), £70 (concessionary)

COMPETITION DAY PASS

All school or national competitions for one day £5. Available to purchase on the door only 6

Free Events

FREE EVENTS WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER Festival Forum 2025, Ulster University, 10:00 Conducting Masterclass, Ulster University, 12:00 SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER Big Sing Workshop with Humanophones Millennium Forum, 16:00 WEDNESDAY 22 – SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER All community events are free entry Community Concerts • • Choral Trails Sacred Trails •

Foreword

W

elcome to the 13th edition of the City of Derry International Choir Festival. The number 13 will prove to be very lucky for the thousands who will enjoy this year’s exciting and adventurous programme of singing and choral music in its many and varied guises.

Regular attendees of the festival will recognise some small but significant changes to this year’s programme, not least on the opening night, when we host A Night at the Opera, featuring a superb line-up of soloists, along with the Ulster Orchestra and the massed voices of the Festival Chorus, all under the baton of exciting American conductor Ryan Mc Adams. I’m very pleased to say that this concert will be presented in collaboration with Irish National Opera.

Contrast is the order of the day when looking forward to

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Dónal Doherty, Artistic Director of the Festival

the ethereal beauty of the Marian Consort under their founder and director, Rory McCleery, on Thursday in the Guildhall, followed on Friday in the Millennium Forum by the raw energy of Humanophones, on their first visit to the UK and Ireland. This electrifying sevenmember French troupe delivers a genre-defying blend of jazz, pop, funk, soul and world music – not to be missed!

Friday’s programme will close with a programme of sacred music, performed in the appropriately beautiful setting of St Eugene’s Cathedral by two of the most accomplished choral ensembles in Ireland: New Dublin Voices and Codetta.

Added to these gala concerts will be thousands of primary and post-primary pupils participating in workshops and competitions. Ulster University will host a choral conducting workshop led by Josep Vila i Casañas and a Festival Forum

led by Sing Ireland, where the focus will be on exploring the SWAN project – singing for those living with additional needs. Thousands of singers in more than 100 choirs (including, for the first time, singers from the Philippines and Nigeria) will bring the city and the whole north-west region alive with singing over the five days of the festival.

I wish to record my sincere thanks to all our funders, sponsors, supporters and volunteers, who continue to help make the City of Derry International Choir Festival a bright, shining beacon of artistic excellence for the city, the region and the country.

I look forward to welcoming you to this magnificent celebration of song.

Dónal Doherty Artistic Director of the Festival

Welcome

Councillor Ruairí McHugh , Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council

A

s Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, it is a true honour to welcome all the talented musicians, singers and performers from around the world to our historic city for this year’s City of Derry International Choir Festival.

I want to extend my sincere congratulations to the festival organisers: their tireless work has made this event a highlight on our annual calendar and a key part of our city’s identity.

This festival grows more popular and more celebrated each year, and that is a testament to their dedication.

The festival is a source of immense pride for our city. It not only showcases incredible local and international talent, but also significantly boosts our cultural and tourism sectors. Music has a unique power to bring people together, and this event successfully unites our communities in song and celebration.

To all of our visitors and participants: I hope you feel the warm welcome for which our city is known. I encourage you to take some time to explore our rich history and vibrant culture.

Derry City and Strabane District Council is very proud to be associated with the City of Derry International Choir Festival. I’m personally looking forward to attending the performances and experiencing the magic of the festival first-hand. My very best wishes to everyone involved for a successful and memorable event!

Councillor Ruairí McHugh Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council

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A Note From Our Principal Funder

S

peaking about the unlimited expressive potential of the human voice, the legendary singer Nina Simone described it as “the only pure instrument”, with “notes that no other instrument has”.

From gala concerts and choral trails to schools and community programmes, competitions and workshops, the options for enjoying choral music as a participant or audience member are many and varied.

With the City of Derry International Choir Festival, we are lucky to have so many opportunities to see and hear this unique instrument in action, in a city which is internationally famous for music and song.

The Arts Council believes that access to arts experiences is a fundamental right, which plays a crucial role in fostering creativity, personal development, and bringing communities together.

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We are delighted to once more be providing the principal support for this year’s City of Derry International Choir Festival, with game-changing investment from The National Lottery.

Our thanks as always to the festival team for creating another wonderful celebration of choral music for us all to enjoy together.

Ciaran Scullion Head of Music and Opera Arts Council of Northern Ireland

www.choralfestivalnetwork.org

City of Derry International Choir Festival is a proud member of Black Forest Voices – Kirchzarten, Germany | CantaRode International Choral Festival & Competition – Kerkrade, Netherlands | City of Derry International Choir Festival – Derry, Ireland | Cork International Choral Festival – Cork, Ireland | Festivals under the label of EUROPEAN CHORAL ASSOCIATION – Bonn, Germany: Europa Cantat junior 2026 – Girona, Catalonia, Spain; Europa Cantat 2027 – Liepāja, Latvia | European Youth Choir Festival Basel – Basel, Switzerland | European Music Festival for Young People – Pelt (Neerpelt), Belgium | Golden Gate International Choral Festival – Oakland, California USA | Harmonie Festival – Lindenholzhausen, Germany | Festivals under the label of IFCM – International Federation of Choral Music – Lisboa, Portugal: World Choral Expo – Lisboa, Portugal, World Symposium of Choral Music – changing places | International Baltic Sea Choir Competition – Jurmala, Latvia | International Chamber Choir Competition Marktoberdorf – Marktoberdorf, Germany | International Choral Festival Flanders-Genk – Genk, Belgium | International Choral Competition Ave Verum – Baden, Austria | International Choral Competition Gallus Maribor – Maribor, Slovenia | International Choral Festival of Preveza – Preveza, Greece | International Choral Music Festival Barcelona – Barcelona, Spain | International Festival Universitas Cantat – Poznań, Poland | Japan Vocal Music Festival – Yokohama, Japan | Montana International Choral Festival – Missoula, Montana USA | Musica Sacra International – Marktoberdorf, Germany | San Juan Canta International Choir Festival and Competition – San Juan, Argentina | Sborove slavnosti * Czech Choir Festival – Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic | Singapore International Choral Festival – Singapore | Tallinn International Choral Festival – Tallinn, Estonia | Tampere Vocal Music Festival – Tampere, Finland | Tokyo International Choir Competition – Tokyo, Japan | Tolosa Choral Contest – Tolosa, Spain 11

WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER

Festival Forum 2025 Recital Room, Foyle Arts Building, Ulster University Magee, 10:00 – 11:30

FREE ENTRY, OPEN TO ALL In partnership with Sing Ireland, the 2025 Festival Forum will take an in-depth look at the SWAN project (Singing with Additional Needs), an international project that seeks to draw on best practices from multiple European countries to include people in collective singing who have additional needs due to disabilities and/or physical or psychological health issues.

Presentations by Daniel Clements (Sing Ireland), Bríd Cutliffe (Ardnashee School and College, Derry) and Siobhan Heaney (Hive Cancer Support Choir, Derry)

The SWAN project aims to: Collect, scale and promote best practices in collective singing for people • with additional needs Provide transnational opportunities for collective singing professionals • to engage with the best practices of other countries • Develop and make use of digital tools to support people with additional needs in participating Make knowledge internationally accessible.

•

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WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER

Conducting Masterclass Recital Room, Foyle Arts Building, Ulster University Magee, 12:00 – 14:00

FREE ENTRY, OPEN TO ALL A practical, interactive and

This workshop is also open to

in Music and Choral Director,

inspirational conducting

the public for those who would

has been instrumental

masterclass led by renowned

like to view the session.

in developing the choir’s reputation over the last 15

choral director and adjudicator Josep Vila i Casañas from

Guest choir: Ulster University

years. The choir regularly

Catalonia.

Chamber Choir

contributes to charity

Musical Director: Shaun Ryan

fundraising and has contributed to numerous TV

Participants will have the opportunity to conduct a piece of

The Ulster University Chamber

music with the Ulster University

Choir has gained popular

Chamber Choir, honing their

and critical acclaim for its

conducting skills and learning

distinctive performances.

from other aspiring conductors.

Shaun Ryan, Senior Lecturer

and radio broadcasts.

Applicants will conduct or view the session

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WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER

Opening Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

Festival Chorus, Ulster Orchestra, & Irish National Opera Millennium Forum, 19:30

ULSTER ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL CHORUS RYAN MCADAMS CONDUCTOR DÓNAL DOHERTY CHORUS MASTER RACHEL CROASH SOPRANO AEBH KELLY MEZZO TREVOR ELIOT BOWES BASS

PROGRAMME Verdi: Overture (Nabucco) Verdi: Gli arredi festivi (Nabucco) Verdi: Chorus of the Hebrew slaves (Nabucco) Bizet: Habanera (Carmen) Donizetti: D’immenso giubilo (Lucia di Lammermoor) Puccini: Scuoti quella fronda di ciliegio and Humming Chorus (Madama Butterfly) INTERVAL Smetana: Three Dances (The Bartered Bride) i. Polka ii. Furiant iii. Dance of the Comedians Dvořák: Měsíčku na nebi hlubokém - Song to the Moon (Rusalka) Verdi: Witches’ chorus (Macbeth) Verdi: Studia il passo, o mio figlio! (Macbeth) Verdi: Chorus of the Scottish refugees (Macbeth) Mascagni: Voi lo sapete (Cavalleria Rusticana) Mascagni: Easter hymn (Cavalleria Rusticana) 14

Opening Night Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

PROGRAMME NOTES

Giuseppe Verdi’s opera

girl, who introduces herself

branch of the cherry tree’).

Nabucco was his first major

with the provocative Habanera

Their exchange grows into the

success. It tells the biblical

(‘L’amour est un oiseau rebelle’

tender ‘Flower Duet’. Finally,

story of the plight of the

– ‘Love is a rebellious bird’),

they sit and wait in silence,

ancient Jews enslaved by

showing how she sees the

awaiting the dawn, the feeling

Nebuchadnezzar, the king of

freedom and unpredictability

intensified by the famous

Babylon. While the work has a

of love.

Humming Chorus.

action takes place in a state of

Love has terrifying power

Through the nineteenth

anxiety and fear as the Jews

in Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia

century, calls for Czech

fight to retain their identity

di Lammermoor. The chorus

independence grew in

and faith—and their lives. After

celebrates the wedding of

intensity—and variety—seen

the Overture, the opening

protagonist Lucia to Arturo

especially in the championing

chorus (‘Gli arredi festivi giù

(‘D’immenso giubilo’ – ‘Let us

of Czech music and the

cadano infranti’ – ‘Throw

raise our voices’). This marriage

growth of operas in the Czech

down and destroy all festive

had been arranged by Lucia’s

language. An early success

decorations’) sees the Israelites

brother to save the family

in this style, first staged in

pray desperately for safety

home, but fatefully she loves

Prague in 1866, was Bedřich

as the Babylonians advance

another. The chaplain rushes

Smetana’s The Bartered

on their city. The chorus that

in to stop the festivities with

Bride, a village comedy. It

follows comes from after the

horrifying news: Lucia has gone

includes opportunities for

Israelites have been put into

mad, and killed her husband.

traditional dancing, as seen in

triumphant ending, much of the

the Three Dances: the Polka;

exile, and is another prayer.

This is the chorus of Hebrew

Cio-Cio-San in Giacomo

the Furiant; and the Dance of

slaves (‘Va, pensiero, sull’ali

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly

the Comedians. A generation

dorate’ – ‘Fly, thoughts, on

has been faithfully awaiting

later, the power that emerged

golden wings’), expressing their

the return of her American

in Czech opera can be heard

longing for their homeland.

naval officer husband for three

in the legendary ‘Song to

long years. Hearing the news

the Moon’ (‘Měsíčku na nebi

The opening scene of Georges

that his ship is at last in sight,

hlubokém’) in Antonín Dvořák’s

Bizet’s Carmen draws us into

she prepares to welcome him

folkloric Rusalka, as the title-

the setting of the opera: the

and asks her maid Suzuki to

character, a water-spirit, longs

street life of Seville. Central to

gather flowers (‘Scuoti quella

for her beloved.

this is Carmen, a defiant gypsy

fronda di ciliegio’ – ‘Shake that

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Opening Night Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

PROGRAMME NOTES CONT.

Verdi admired the plays of

passo, o mio figlio’ – ‘Hurry, my

caught in a jealous love-

William Shakespeare. His first

son, let us escape’). Later in the

triangle, tells her boyfriend’s

Shakespearean adaptation was

opera, Scottish refugees gather

mother her heartbreaking fate

Macbeth, which powerfully

to express their sorrow at what

in the aria ‘Voi lo sapete’ (‘You

evokes the drama of this

has become of their native land

well know’). This is followed by

tragedy from its opening, with

(‘Patria oppressa!’ – ‘Oppressed

the atmospheric Easter Hymn

the eerie chorus of witches

land of ours!’).

‘Rorate coeli’, sung by the full chorus.

(‘Che faceste? dite su!’ – ‘What have you done? Tell us!’).

Pietro Mascagni’s one-act

Banquo’s fear of the gathering

tragic opera Cavalleria

Programme Note by

darkness comes across in his

Rusticana (‘Rustic Chivalry’) is

Michael Lee

starkly dramatic aria, addressed

set in a poor Sicilian village.

to his son Fleance (‘Studia il

A peasant girl, Santuzza,

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Opening Night Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

Ryan McAdams Conductor Equally at home in the worlds of opera, symphonic repetoire, and contemporary music, American conductor Ryan McAdams has established a strong presence on both sides of the Atlantic. He is Principal Conductor of Crash Ensemble, Ireland’s foremost contemporary music group.

Ryan begins the 2025-26 season with Welsh National Opera’s production of Candide, before heading to Atlanta Opera for Philip Glass’s La Belle et la Bête.

He will end the year with Irish National Opera, conducting the Ulster Orchestra in their Opera Gala concert in Derry. The new year sees his return to the National Symphony Orchestra in Dublin and the Istanbul State

Child, for Irish National Opera

Prize for Opera Conducting. He

Symphony Orchestra, and his

- which was highly successful

was a Conducting Fellow at

debut with the Stuttgarter

at the Galway International

Tanglewood, Associate Conduc-

Philharmoniker. Throughout the

Arts Festival - Signum record-

tor of the New York City Opera,

season, he will lead subscrip-

ed the production, and the

and an Assistant Conductor at

tion concerts with multiple Ital-

CD is due to be released later

the Aspen Music Festival and

ian orchestras, including a tour

this season. Together, they

the Glimmerglass Festival. As a

with Milan’s I Pomeriggi Musicali

also premiered the FEDORA

Fulbright Scholar, he served as

and pianist Mikhail Pletnev.

Prize-winning The Second

Apprentice Conductor of the

Violinist by Dennehy/Walsh,

Royal Stockholm Philharmonic,

With Crash Ensemble, Ryan reg-

bringing the opera to the Bar-

assisting then-Chief Conductor

ularly performs at the National

bican in London and Dutch

Alan Gilbert. Ryan studied at

Concert Hall’s New Music Dublin

National Opera in Amsterdam.

the Juilliard School and Indiana

Festival and the Huddersfield

University.

Contemporary Music Festival.

He was the first-ever recipi-

Following the revival and tour

ent of both the Sir Georg Solti

of Donnacha Dennehy and Enda

Emerging Conductor Award

Walsh’s latest opera, The First

and the Aspen-Glimmerglass

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Opening Night Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

Rachel Croash Soprano

Dublin soprano Rachel Croash

Frasquita; Clorinda; Erste Dame;

was a member of the inaugural

Kate Pinkerton; Mademoiselle

Irish National Opera Studio and

Silberklang (Irish National

the Cork Opera House Cara

Opera) and Mimi; Fiordiligi;

O’Sullivan Associate Artists.

Susanna; Frasquita (Cork Opera

Awards include the Wexford

House).

Award and the WFO & PwC

Oratorio performances include

Emerging Artist Bursary.

Stanford’s Stabat Mater at Cork City Hall, Händel’s Messiah at

Rachel’s previous operatic

St. Muerdach’s Cathedral in

roles have included Mathilde

Ballina, Vivaldi’s Gloria at Knock

(Nouvel Opéra Fribourg),

Basilica with the Palestrina

Blanche; Norina and Avis

Choir, Haydn’s The Creation,

– Cover), Mathilde; Marianne;

Society.

Concert highlights include

Barber’s ‘Knoxville: Summer

of 1915’ with the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra and

Festival Opera Aria Friends

(Glyndebourne Festival Opera

Solenelle with Culwick Choral

Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit and Rossini’s Petite Messe

performances with the RTÉ

Concert Orchestra and City of

Dublin Chamber Orchestra. She

had the privilege of singing at Áras an Uachtaráin for the President

of Ireland Michael D. Higgins and as guest soloist for the televised National Commemoration Day Service at Collins Barracks.

Aebh Kelly Mezzo

Dublin-born mezzo-soprano

John Adams’ Nixon in China at

Irish National Opera Studio,

Aebh Kelly is currently based at

the Opéra national de Paris.

performing in 20 Shots of Opera and A Thing I Cannot Name.

the Staatsoper Hamburg, where she is a member of the Inter-

Aebh is a graduate of the Royal

She later returned to make her

national Opera Studio. During

Irish Academy of Music, earning

role debut as Flora in La Travi-

the 2024–2026 seasons, she

a first class honours under

ata. In 2022, she won second

will make numerous role debuts,

the tutelage of Virginia Kerr

prize at the Veronica Dunne

including Hänsel (Hänsel und

and Dearbhla Collins. As an un-

International Singing Competi-

Gretel), Anna Kennedy (Maria

dergraduate, she reached the

tion, as well as the Dublin Song

Stuarda) and The Page of

final round of the international

Series Prize and Dermot Troy

Herodias (Salome). In February

singing competition Neue Stim-

Prize.

2026, she will make her role and

men. In 2020, Aebh became the

house debut as Nancy Tang in

youngest ever member of the

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Trevor Eliot Bowes Bass

Trevor Eliot Bowes studied at

concerts are Handel’s Dixit

Concert highlights include

the University of Toronto, the

Dominus (Les musiciens du

Haydn’s Paukenmesse (London

Banff Centre for the Arts and

Louvre); and Rossini’s Petite

Philharmonic Orchestra);

the Royal Scottish Academy of

messe solennelle (Royal Liverpool Mozart’s Requiem (Toronto

Music and Drama. He is a former

Philharmonic Choirs).

Symphony Orchestra, The Hallé); Handel’s Aci, Galatea

Britten Pears Young Artist and In recent seasons he has

e Polifemo (OAE); Handel’s

performed Antonio in The

Messiah (London Handel

Current season highlights

Marriage of Figaro and Benoît

Festival); Vaughan Williams’

include Dick Deadeye in HMS

in La bohème, (English National

Fantasia on Christmas Carols

Pinafore (English National

Opera); Father Trulove in

(Orchestra of English National

Opera); Collatinus in The Rape

The Rake’s Progress, Colline

Opera); Bach’s Cantata 71

of Lucretia (English Touring

La bohème and Seneca The

(Toronto International Bach

Opera); and his debut at the

Coronation of Poppea (English

Festival); and Thief in Peer

Drottningholms Slottsteater

Touring Opera).

Gynt (Royal Scottish National

Equilibrium Young Artist.

in summer 2026. Among his

Orchestra).

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Opening Night Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

Ulster Orchestra

© B. Eolevega

Founded in 1966, the Ulster

creative collaborations across

The Ulster Orchestra’s

Orchestra has been at the

the arts. An important aspect

Learning and Community

forefront of musical life in

of the Ulster Orchestra’s work

Engagement programme aims

Northern Ireland for over 50

across Northern Ireland is its

to connect the Orchestra with

years. The Orchestra performs

annual touring programme of

communities and individuals

around 40 concerts a year in

concerts, which brings live

across Northern Ireland, both

its home, the Ulster Hall, and

orchestral music to the heart

as audiences and participants.

the Waterfront Hall, Belfast.

of communities across the

All the Orchestra’s musicians

region.

work on activities including Relaxed Performances for

With a mission to enrich the lives of people living in

The Ulster Orchestra’s

people with additional needs,

Northern Ireland, those visiting,

recordings are gaining global

mentoring and coaching

and those who encounter it

critical acclaim, with a recent

for players at all stages and

through international touring

CD of music by Kurt Weill

the Crescendo project, the

and regular radio and TV

on SOMM records garnering

Orchestra’s community-led

broadcasts with the BBC,

critical praise. The Orchestra

residency project for children

the Orchestra strives for

also regularly records for labels

from disadvantaged areas in

excellence in all it undertakes,

such as Hyperion (with Howard

North and West Belfast.

be it concert performances,

Shelley), Naxos (with former

learning and community

Chief Conductor JoAnn Faletta),

engagement programmes, or

Chandos and Toccata Classics.

20

Opening Night Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera

Festival Chorus

SOPRANO

ALTO

TENOR

Debbie Browne Michelle Byrom Siobhan Carroll Phil Chudley Jacinta Clarke Helen Cole Karen D’Aoust Gemma Daly Aoife Doherty Emer Dunne Carol Ewing Fiona Farren Marie Fitzpatrick Sophie Humphries Emer Kelly Rachel Kelly Yvonne Kelly Leona Matthews Grainne McAnaney Aine McAteer Megan McBain Paulene McCaul-Clarke Ann McCay Margaret McCay Cristíona McGettigan Ciara McGilloway Joanna McVeagh Linda Morgan Aideen Morrison Noirin O’Connell Una-Marie O’Donnell Patricia O’Donnell Rachel Stone Stephanie Warne

Joanne Armstrong Brigette Cavanagh Riona Clancy Sinead Coyle Mary Coyle Fiona Crosbie Eva Curran Gaby Cushenan Frances Devlin Christine Diamond Elizabeth Doherty Cecile Engel Tessa Grindle Siobhan Heaney Marie Humphreys Deirdre Kelpie Mary Kinsella Carole Leonard Cliodna Logue Eiméar McCloskey Brid McGinley Helen McLaughlin Aoife Mullan Mairéad Nic Bhloscaidh Andrea O’Donnell Jenny O’Donnell Helen O’Hare Judith O’Hare Cathy Park Yvette Rainey Roisin Rice Margaret Ross Vanessa Schverdfinger Lesley Wilkinson

Neil Black Kevin Carmody Paul Clancy Columb Duffy David Flanagan John Fox Damien Harkin Jason Loughrey Martin Meehan Alex Moore Noel O’Donnell Martin White Liam Winters

BASS Brendan Doherty Eoghan Doherty Matthew Duffy Joshua Futi Paul Gorman Anthony Jackson Brian Logue Eunan Moran Eddie Murray Chris Roberts Thomas Wylie

21

THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER

Primary School Big Sing Led by Laura McFall

Millennium Forum, 10:00

Led by Laura McFall, this fun workshop for young voices will explore the building blocks of singing and musicality using the Kodály Method.

Laura McFall Big Sing Leader Laura McFall is a distinguished

servatoire of Scotland. She is

and the Dunedin Consort. Laura

musician, educator, and choral

a skilled Kodály practitioner,

is also an advocate of the ben-

leader. She is known for her

choral leader, and singing

efits that singing has for our

dedication to advancing vocal

teacher.

well-being, and firmly believes that everyone has the capacity

arts and music education, and has carved out an im-

Her professional experience is

to sing and benefit from its

pressive career that bridges

extensive and varied, in-

joys. Her inclusive philosophy

performance, education, and

cluding teaching positions

is evident in her work as she

community engagement.

with Sistema Scotland,

strives to make singing an inte-

the Royal Conservatoire of

gral part of life for individuals

Laura holds a Master’s degree

Scotland Juniors and Seniors,

and communities alike.

in Music Performance and

National Youth Choirs of Scot-

a Post-Graduate Diploma of

land and Northern Ireland,

Education from the Royal Con-

Queen’s University Belfast,

22

THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER

The Marian Consort Guildhall, 19:30

RORY MCCLEERY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR CAROLINE HALLS, ELSPETH PIGGOTT SOPRANO SARAH ANNE CHAMPION, MERCÈ BRUGUERA ABELLÓ ALTO WILL WRIGHT, EDWARD WOODHOUSE TENOR JON STAINSBY, CHRISTOPHER WEBB BASS WILLIAM WHITEHEAD ORGAN PETER MCCARTHY VIOLONE © Frances Marshall

The Marian Consort is an

Led by founder and director

documentary series ‘Art That

award-winning UK vocal

Rory McCleery, The Marian

Made Us’), and has released

ensemble that presents bold

Consort (TMC) is distinguished

fourteen recordings to critical

and thrilling performances

by its flexible, intimate

acclaim, garnering a variety

of music from across the

approach, with a clarity

of accolades and awards

centuries.

of texture and subtlety of

including the Diapason D’Or,

interpretation that illuminates

Presto Classical Album of

‘Singing one person to a

the music for performer and

the Year and the Preis der

part, The Marian Consort give

audience alike.

Deutschen Schallplattenkritik.

and impeccably tuned

TMC features regularly

Noted for ‘performances that

performances’ — The Sunday

on UK and international

glow with golden purity and

Times

television and radio (including

soul’, The Marian Consort

BBC Two’s recent flagship

performs music from the

sublimely refined, spacious

23

THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER The Marian Consort

12th century to the present

while mentoring developing

and young people, and it hosts

day, with a focus on bringing

composers through the

workshops and study days,

to light and championing

Emerging Voices scheme. TMC

performs school concerts, and

marginalised and lesser-known

has premiered over 30 works

leads on longer-term education

Renaissance composers, such

to date and in recent years has

projects with partners both in

as Vicente Lusitano, Raffaella

commissioned Dani Howard,

the UK and internationally. It

Aleotti, and Jean Maillard.

David Fennessy, Anna Semple,

has an avid online following,

Laurence Osborn and Electra

and presents performance

Perivolaris.

videos and podcasts in

Praised for its engaging and

collaboration with prize-

innovative programming, TMC also works with living

TMC is committed to inspiring

winning poets, actors, writers,

composers through its

a love of singing and creativity

artists, academics, composers

New Music Programme,

in people of all ages, with a

and musicians, reaching an

commissioning extensively

particular focus on children

audience of millions worldwide.

Rory McCleery, Artistic Director of the Marian Consort

David Fennessy, Composer. Two pieces about Heinrich Schütz (1585 1672), commissioned by The Marian Consort

PROGRAMME – Vale of Tears Johann Christoph Bach: Mit Weinen hebt sichs an Attrib. Johann Bach: Weint nicht um meinen Tod Johann Michael Bach: Herr, ich warte auf dein Heil Johann Ludwig Bach: Das blut Jesu Christi Johann Sebastian Bach: Komm, Jesu, komm INTERVAL Heinrich Schütz: Musikalische Exequien I. Nacket bin ich von Mutterliebe kommen David Fennessy: Two pieces about Heinrich Schütz (1585 - 1672): Naked Heinrich Schütz: Musikalische Exequien II. Herr, wenn ich nur dich habe David Fennessy: Two pieces about Heinrich Schütz (1585 - 1672): In Frieden (In peace) Heinrich Schütz: Musikalische Exequien III. Herr, nun lassest du deinen Diener

24

The Marian Consort THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER

PROGRAMME NOTES The pre-eminent German

a German burial mass’. The

stages of mortal life for the

composer of the 17th century

second movement is a double-

glory of the hereafter. Johann

Baroque, Heinrich Schütz

choir motet very much in the

Michael Bach (1648-1694),

(1585-1672) was born into a

style of the Venetian composer

brother of Johann Christoph,

prominent Saxon dynasty,

Giovanni Gabrieli (1557-1612),

wrote a number of double-choir

rising to become a long-serving

with antiphonal exchanges

motets: Herr, ich warte auf dein

Kapellmeister for the Elector

between the two groups.

Heil is striking for its division of the text between the two

of Saxony. The peak of his composing career coincided

The third and final movement

choirs, whilst the almost obses-

with the Thirty Years War

divides the musicians into two

sive repetition of words is also

(1618-48), a brutal conflict

groups: one a lower-scored

a feature of Johann Ludwig

that decimated the population

ensemble of Altos, Tenors and

Bach’s (1677-1731) Das blut

of his native Germany. The

Bass singing the words of the

Jesu Christi.

ubiquity of death at this time

German Nunc Dimittis, and the

is hard to overstate: Schütz

other, consisting of two upper

In Komm, Jesu, komm we see

himself witnessed the passing

voices and bass, representing

the final evolution of the style

of his wife and one of his two

‘the joy of the disembodied

Schütz inherited from Gabrieli,

daughters, as well as countless

blessed soul in heaven, in the

with J.S. Bach combining an-

close friends and relatives.

company of heavenly spirits

tiphonal double-choir writing

In these circumstances, it

and holy angels’. To achieve

with his trademark meticu-

is perhaps less surprising

this, Schütz requests that

lous counterpoint and many

that someone would make

‘Primus chorus is placed close

moments of overtly dramatic

meticulous, detailed plans for

to the organ, secundus chorus

word-painting, before giving

their own funeral. This was

however in the distance’. The

way to the pathos and simplici-

exactly what happened in

double-choir scoring of the

ty of the final chorale.

the case of the aptly named

final two movements of the

Prince Heinrich ‘Posthumus’ of

Exequien would prove to be

Written as a direct response to

Reuss. The prince left specific

particularly influential for the

the Musicalische Exequien and

instructions about the texts

funerary motets of subsequent

designed to be interpolated

that he wanted for his funeral

generations of German

between its three movements,

service, many of which he had

composers, including many of

David Fennessy’s Two pieces

engraved onto his beautifully

the members of the extended

about Heinrich Schütz (1585 -

ornate copper coffin, and

Bach dynasty.

1672) were commissioned and first performed by The Marian

Schütz was commissioned by the Prince’s widow and sons to

The earliest of the Bach family

Consort in 2022. They draw

set these to music.

motets in this evening’s pro-

on the soundworld, scoring

gramme is attributed to Johann

and musical material of the

The Musicalische Exequien,

Bach (1604-1673). Both Weint

Exequien, transforming them

first performed at the Prince’s

nicht um meinen Tod and Mit

into something both new and

interment on February 4 1636,

weinen hebt sichs an share

timeless, all the while exploring

is written in three movements

not only their scoring but also

the ideas of personal grief and

for voices with basso continuo.

texts focused on the con-

musical drama that make the

The first movement is in a new

ceit of weeping and the very

Exequien such a pioneering

form devised by Schütz, that

Lutheran idea of escaping the

work of the 17th Century.

of a ‘Concerto in the form of

toil and misery of the various 25

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FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Post-Primary School Competitions Millennium Forum, 10:00 All details correct at time of going to print

UNISON/2-PART COMPETITION Thornhill College Year 8 Choir, Derry (Margaret McCay) 1. Andrea Ramsey: Grow, Little Tree 2. Harry Belafonte, arr. Mark Hayes: Turn the World Around Dominican College Junior Choir, Portstewart (Sarah Minihan) 1. Andrea Ramsey: Grow, Little Tree 2. Greg Gilpin: Whisper St. Cecilia’s College, Derry (Ryan Quinn) 1. Mark Burrows: O Lux Beatissima 2. Original Glee, arr. Adam Anders and Peer Astrom, adapted Mac Huff: Hit Me With Your Best Shot/One Way or Another Thornhill College Junior Choir, Derry (Margaret McCay) 1. French Canadian Folksong, arr. Emily Crocker: J’entends Le Moulin 2. Jacob Narverud: Love Never Leaves

3/4-PART COMPETITION Coláiste Muire, Ballymote, Sligo (Charles O’Connor/Rosario Heaney McGreal) 1. John Rutter: A Clare Benediction 2. Harry Warren, arr. Pete Schmutte: Chattanooga Choo Choo Lumen Christi College SSA Choir, Derry (Mark Bradley) 1. J. Kern, arr. Julie Gaulke: All the things you are 2. Duke Ellington, arr. Mac Huff: It don’t mean a thing (if it ain’t got that swing) Foyle College, Derry (Emma Moore) 1. Eric Whitacre: Seal Lullaby 2. Bob Chilcott: Buffalo Gals Thornhill College Senior Choir, Derry (Elizabeth Quigley) 1. Ola Gjeilo: Northern Lights 2. Rupert Lang: Cantate Domino St. Cecilia’s College, Derry (Ryan Quinn) 1. Little Mix, arr. Andy Beck: Wings 2. Stephen Sondheim, arr. Jacob Narverud: Children Will Listen St. Mary’s Secondary School, Ballina, Mayo (Regina Deacy) 1. Dan Forrest: There is faint music 2. Charlotte Botha: Cantate Domino

28

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Student Big Sing Workshop Post-Primary Workshop Led by Humanophones Millennium Forum, After Post-Primary Competitions

Using their voices and every

and vocal energy alone.

The post-primary school

other conceivable part of the

This electrifying workshop

adjudications will take place

body that can be used as a

will have every student on

immediately after the Big Sing

sound space, this electrifying

their feet, exploring the

workshop.

seven-member French troupe

Humanophones’ signature

delivers a genre-defying blend

‘body pop music’ and

of jazz, pop, funk, soul and

celebrating the universal power

world music, all performed

of the human body and voice.

through rhythm, movement,

29

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Humanophones Millennium Forum, 19:30

FRÉDÉRIKA ALÉSINA VOICE DAVID AMAR VOICE VOCAL BASS NATACHA KANGA, VOICE RÉMI LECLERC BODY PERCUSSION, VOICE, CONCEPTION, COMPOSITION JORIS LEDANTEC VOICE CHRISTOPHER M’PASSI VOICE, BEAT BOX VALERIA VITRANO BODY PERCUSSION, VOICE

The Company of

themselves as ‘anatomical

audiences into a vibrant

Humanophones was founded

concert performers’, the

world where the human form

by Rémi Leclerc in 2013 with

Humanophones blur the

reveals both its strength

a mission to create powerful

lines between disciplines,

and vulnerability. Their

artistic encounters through

seamlessly weaving together

performances explore

music and bodily expression.

dance, physical theatre, and

the complexities of social

vocal percussion. Their bodies

interaction, using poetic

Driven by a deep desire to

are their orchestra, their

imagery and humorously

return to the essentials – the

movements a melody.

drawn characters to reflect on human connection in fresh,

body and the voice – they redefine performance by

With their original

becoming the instruments

compositions, the

themselves. Describing

Humanophones invite

30

unexpected ways.

Humanophones

PROGRAMME The Humanophones present ANTROPUS, an ‘alternative’ and soul pop concert produced entirely by the body. An eco-friendly, anatomical and jubilant odyssey, 100% human-made. Guaranteed AI-free ingredients: voice, body percussion, beat box, dance and good humour!

The show takes place in the present day, in the Anthropocene. It is a space and time, never before experienced, in which humans are simultaneously advancing and retreating. Aware that they are destroying their natural environment and their ‘planetary vessel’, they are unable to curb their perpetual evolution.

Our timely awareness and our harmful influence both have their roots in the same place: our intelligence, our memory of the past, our ability to learn from our mistakes and anticipate our successes. The human species, with all its marvels and horrors, is nothing if not a contradiction.

ANTROPUS thus calls us to redefine human values, to be constantly aware so as not to drift aimlessly, offering up constructive initiatives, realistic solutions and alternatives, rather than pessimistic and alarming discourse.

In this new creation, Rémi Leclerc presents a modern and original musical universe.

The Humanophones perform popular music with a mesh of urban cultures and African pulses. Their ‘deep dance’ develops from the essence of primitive bodily music. Futuristic polyphonies, skillfully arranged by Rémi Leclerc (also a pianist and composer), merge with clear and organic sounds made by hands, mouths and tongue clicks.

In this repertoire of ‘songs and modern music’, the lyrics raise questions and look at issues that concern us, such as ecology and ‘collapsology’. The original compositions have an innovative spirit and an avant-garde audacity, while remaining universal.

Humanophones Youth Project Joining Humanophones on stage in the Millennium Forum is a group of young singers from schools in Derry and Belfast who have had the amazing opportunity of working with members of Humanophones in workshops and rehearsals throughout festival week.

SCHOOLS: Foyle College, Derry St. Mary’s College, Derry Thornhill College, Derry Codetta Youth Choir North Belfast Youth Choir 31

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Cathedral Light 20 | 25 Codetta and New Dublin Voices

St. Eugene’s Cathedral, 22:00

CODETTA DÓNAL DOHERTY MUSICAL DIRECTOR NEW DUBLIN VOICES BERNIE SHERLOCK MUSICAL DIRECTOR

Celebrating their 25th

Under the direction of Dónal

celebrating a key milestone

anniversary in 2025, Codetta

Doherty, Codetta brings a

in 2025: its 20th anniversary.

is a cornerstone of the choral

powerful blend of choral

Winning top honours at

scene in Northern Ireland and

richness and artistic vision to

prestigious competitions

beyond, with an impressive

every performance.

across Europe, including 1st

international touring record,

­

place winners of our very own

collaborations with the Ulster

Codetta is joined by the

Oak Tree of Derry International

Orchestra, and standout

exceptional New Dublin Voices,

Competition in 2019, New Dublin

performances at the BBC Proms

an internationally decorated

Voices is known for its daring,

and Washington’s Kennedy

chamber choir led by Bernie

imaginative programming and

Centre.

Sherlock, which is also

commitment to new music.

PROGRAMME NEW DUBLIN VOICES Georg Grün: Veni (Maranatha No. 3) Caroline Shaw: and the swallow Giovanni Gabrieli: Angelus Domini descendit Vytautas Miskinis: Dum medium silentium Motshwane Pege: Jubilate Deo CODETTA William Byrd: Haec Dies Arvo Pärt: The woman with the alabaster box Mohammed Fairouz: The second coming Olivier Messiaen: O Sacrum Convivium Stephen Paulus: The road home JOINT PERFORMANCE: Frank Martin: Mass for Double Choir i. Kyrie iv. Sanctus

32

Cathedral Light 20 | 25

Codetta

The international prize-winning

an audience of more than eight

short tour of the Jalisco area

choir Codetta was formed in

million viewers. In May 2016,

of Mexico.

the year 2000. Since then, it

Codetta performed with Barry

has earned a reputation for

Douglas and Camerata in the

An annual highlight for the

choral excellence and have

Kennedy Centre, Washington,

choir is its participation in

given many concerts both

and in 2017 it won the

the City of Derry International

nationally and internationally,

Fleischmann International

Choir Festival in October, with

including performances in the

Trophy at the Cork International

recent performances including

United States, Italy, Spain,

Choral Festival.

Verdi’s Requiem, Bruckner’s Mass in E minor and Carl Orff’s

the Czech Republic, Norway, Slovenia, Switzerland and

The choir performs regularly

Carmina Burana, and last year it

Mexico.

with the Ulster Orchestra,

performed the very moving and

including annual performances

powerful A Child of Our Time by

Past highlights include two

of Handel’s Messiah and most

Michael Tippett as part of the

Prom performances in the

recently, a recording of the

2024 festival programme.

Royal Albert Hall in London,

soundtrack to the film, Lost

Last Night of the Proms in

Lives.

Belfast and appearing as special guest choir for the 2015

In April 2023, Codetta

BBC Sports Personality of the

presented concerts in Tequila

Year, which was broadcast to

and Guadalajara as part of a

33

Cathedral Light 20 | 25

New Dublin Voices

New Dublin Voices is a leading

France, Italy, Hungary, Germany,

International Baltic Sea Choral

Irish chamber choir founded by

Finland, Belgium, Spain,

Competition in Latvia in 2017.

its international award-winning

England, Northern Ireland,

Previous awards include

conductor Bernie Sherlock.

Slovenia, Latvia, Wales, Poland

First Prize in Cork 2015, the

Renowned for programming

and Bulgaria. In 2024, in Poland,

Grand Prix in Arezzo 2013,

that is innovative and exciting,

the choir won the Grand Prix at

Maasmechelen, Belgium in 2011,

the choir takes special pleasure

Carcovia Cantants, and in 2023

and the Budapest International

in exploring the music of living

in Arezzo, Italy, the choir won

Choir Competition in 2009.

composers and has given

the Mixed Choir Competition

more than 85 world premieres.

and the Special Prize for

New Dublin Voices regularly

New Dublin Voices leads

programming and performance

travels to give concerts at

the way in commissioning,

of contemporary music.

the invitation of international

premiering, performing and

In 2019, New Dublin Voices

festivals, including tours in

disseminating choral music by

won First Prize in the Derry

Switzerland, France, Spain,

Irish composers, both in Ireland

International Choir Festival and

the UK and the US. In 2017

and abroad, and in introducing

Third Prize in Marktoberdorf,

New Dublin Voices was the

music from outside Ireland to

Germany. It won First Prize for

first Irish choir to be invited to

audiences at home.

mixed choirs at the 2018 Béla

perform at the triennial World

Bartók International Choral

Symposium on Choral Music in

The choir has won multiple

Competition in Hungary, and

Barcelona.

prizes at competitions in

the overall Grand Prix at the

34

35

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER

National Competitions Day 1 Millennium Forum, from 10:00

NATIONAL EQUAL VOICE COMPETITIONS, 10:00 UPPER VOICES Côr Merched Cwm Rhondda, Wales (Seren Hâf MacMillan) 1. Eric Whitacre: Seal lullaby 2. Trad, arr. Eric Jones: Robin Ddiog Boydell Singers, Dublin (Chiara Trejo-Infante) 1. Charles Albert Tindley, arr. Barbara W. Baker: The storm is passing over 2. Traditional Bulgarian, arr. Peter Lyondev: Kaval Sviri Vox Orbis, Galway (Mark Keane) 1. Eriks Esenvalds: High flight 2. Josef Rheinberger, arr. Mark Keane: Abendlied

LOWER VOICES Harmony Bro, Clare (Michael Hennessy) 1. Jimmy Rankin, arr. David Wright: Fare thee well, Love 2. Rev. J.K. Alwood, arr. Shawn Kirchner: Unclouded day Cloughmore Male Voice Choir, Newry (Carla Maney) 1. Claude-Michel Schonberg, arr. John Leavitt: Bring him home 2. Arr. Mickey Newbury, adapted Alwyn Humpherys: An American trilogy Harmony Federation, Dublin (Brendan Keenan) 1. Jerome Kern, arr. Mark Hale: The way you look tonight 2. Leonard Cohen, arr. Linda Corcoran: Hallelujah 36

National Competitions Day 1

GUEST PERFORMANCE: I.N.T.A. MIXED VOICE CHOIR, ESTONIA

The adjudication of both equal voice competitions will take place immediately after the guest performance.

NATIONAL MIXED VOICE COMPETITION, 12:30 Fabre Ensemble, Dublin (Ciarán Kelly) 1. Criostóir Ó Liongsig: Scél lemm dúib 2. Heinrich Schütz: Die Himmel erzählen die ehre Gottes Trinity College Singers, Dublin (Callum Jeacle) 1. Tomás Luis de Victoria: O Vos Omnes 2. Hugo Alfvén: Och Jungfrun hon Går i Ringen Côr Cwm Rhondda, Wales (Seren Hâf MacMillan) 1. Dan Forrest: Nos Da Pwt bach (Good night dear heart) 2. Einion Dafydd: Marwnad yr Hedydd Quire LGBTQ+ Singers, Belfast (Niall O’Flaherty-Lynch) 1. Sally Whitwell: She walks in beauty 2. John Lennon & Paul McCartney, arr. Ben See: I want to hold your hand Schola Cantorum Basilicae, Mayo (Una Nolan) 1. Thomas Tallis: If Ye Love Me 2. Ola Gjeilo: Northern Lights Côr Godre’r Garth, Wales (Steffan Watkins) 1. Lowri Mair Jones: Mae awen cwm yn ein cân 2. Traditional, arr. Jeffery Howard: Tiwn Sol-Ffa

37

National Competitions Day 1

NATIONAL LIGHT, POP AND JAZZ COMPETITION, 14:00 Harmony Federation, Dublin (Brendan Keenan) 1. Brian Setzer, arr. Linda Corcoran: Stray cat strut 2. Traditional, arr. Shelton Kilby III: No more sorrow Scrubs CUH Workplace Choir, Cork (Patrick Dalton) 1. Ennio Morricone, arr. Audrey Snyder: Nella fantasia 2. Cy Coleman, arr. Richard Barnes: Rhythm of life Vox Orbis, Galway (Mark Keane) 1. Traditional Irish/Scottish, arr. Mark Keane: The parting glass 2. John Rutter, arr. Mark Keane: It was a lover and his lass Trinity Belles, Dublin (Sky Klemann and Sarah Keenan) 1. Radiohead, arr. Rebecca Lawlor: Creep 2. Chappell Roan, arr. Sky Klemann: Good luck, Babe OLV Gospel Choir, Dublin (Ruth Gahan) 1. Jason Maraz & Michael Natter, arr. Roger Emerson: I Won’t Give Up 2. U2: I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For Cairde Community Choir, Belfast (Siobhan Brown) 1. Adele, arr. Siobhan Brown: Hometown Glory 2. Snow Patrol, arr. Siobhan Brown: Run Fabre Ensemble, Dublin (Ciarán Kelly) 1. Kodaline, arr. Ciarán Kelly: I wouldn’t be 2. Jake Runestad: Nyon Nyon Quire LGBTQ+ Singers, Belfast (Niall O’Flaherty-Lynch) 1. Peter Bostrom, Thomas G. Son: Euphoria 2. Traditional, arr. Alwin Michael Schronen: Down by the Salley Gardens Schola Cantorum Basilicae, Mayo (Una Nolan) 1. Thomas “Fats” Waller and Harry Brooks, arr. Larry Shackley: Ain’t Misbehavin’ 2. Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell, arr. Jennifer Lucy Cook: What was I made for

38

National Competitions Day 1

Big Sing with Humanophones Supported by Sing Ireland Millennium Forum, 16:00

FREE ENTRY, OPEN TO ALL Step into the electrifying world

Participants will explore

No instruments required – just

of The Humanophones, the

rhythm, vocal layering, move-

bring your body, your voice,

French vocal-body percussion

ment, and group coordination

and your curiosity!

ensemble that turns the human

through the ensemble’s signa-

body into a full-blown rhythm

ture ‘body pop music’ style – a

The adjudications for the

machine. In this high-energy,

vibrant fusion of jazz, funk,

National Mixed Voice and Light,

hands-on workshop, singers

soul, pop, and world music. Ex-

Pop and Jazz Competitions will

and choirs will learn how to

pect to move, groove, and dis-

take place immediately after

break musical boundaries using

cover a whole new dimension

the Big Sing Workshop.

nothing but their voices and

of musical expression that’s as

bodies.

visual as it is vocal.

39

40

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER

International Competition Presented by John Toal, BBC Guildhall, 20:00 The International Competition will undoubtedly be a highlight of the City of Derry International Choir Festival, featuring five groups who will each present a challenging and varied programme, as they compete for the prestigious Oak Tree of Derry trophy and a cash prize of £2,000.

For more details on the international choirs, see pages 61 to 65

PROGRAMME University College Cork (UCC) Singers, Ireland (Ben Jacob) 1. Michael McGlynn: Geantraí 2. Heinrich Schütz: Selig sind die Toten 3. Sergei Rachmaninoff: Bogoroditse Devo 4. Jakub Neske: Mironczarnia The Asaph Choir, Nigeria (Daniel Etim) 1. Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina: Missa Brevis - Kyrie 2. John Buckley: There Is a Spot Mid Barren Hills 3. Ayodamope Oluranti: JESUS NA BIGI MAN 4. Dr. D. K. Olukoya, Arranged by Seun Owoaje: Ekiti Medley I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir, Estonia (Inta Roost) 1. Anti Marguste: See on Eesti 2. Éamonn Ó Gallchobhair: An Teitheadh go hÉigipt 3. Pierre Passerau: Il est bel et bon 4. Sergei Rachmaninoff: Bogoroditse Devo 5. Veljo Tormis: Vaeslapsed lanes Laetare Vocal Ensemble, Ireland (Róisín Blunnie) 1. Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina: Exultate Deo 2. Josef Rheinberger: Hymne 3. Katie Bamford: Ecstasy 4. Laura Sheils: Regina Caeli University of Santo Tomas Singers, Philippines (Fidel Gener Calalang, Jr.) 1. Thomas Greaves: Come away, sweet love 2. Seán Doherty: The Destroyer 3. Nilo Alcala: Sagayan Join us at our Resonance Bar Festival Club immediately after this concert in the Guildhall for a drink and a ceili!

41

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER

National Competitions Day 2 Millennium Forum, from 10:00

NATIONAL SACRED AND GOSPEL COMPETITION, 10:00 Côr Godre’r Garth, Wales (Steffan Watkins) 1. Johannes Brahms: Mor hawddgar yw Dy Bebyll Di 2. John Leavitt: Festival Sanctus Cloughmore Male Voice Choir, Newry (Carla Maney) 1. Thomas Jarman: O, for a thousand tongues to sing!

2. Traditional, arr. Denis R. Cocks: Steal away Vox Orbis, Galway (Mark Keane) 1. C. V. Stanford, arr. Mark Keane: Justorum animae 2. Juan Gutierrez de Padilla: Deus in adjutorium OLV Gospel Choir, Dublin (Ruth Gahan) 1. Brian Alexander Morgan & Jaco Pastorius, arr. Michael Higgins: Rain 2. Spiritual, arr. Tiffany Jackson & Michael Yannette: Elijah Rock Cairde Community Choir, Belfast (Siobhan Brown) 1. Angela Ifonlaja , arr. Siobhan Brown: Change 2. Siobhan Brown: Don’t let me wait too long Cór Linn, Dublin (Ciarán Kelly) 1. Bob Chilcott: God So Loved the World 2. Spiritual, arr. Moses Hogan: My soul’s been anchored in the Lord Côr Cwm Rhondda, Wales (Seren Hâf MacMillan) 1. Liturgical, arr. Richard Vaughan: Ave Maria 2. Trad. American, arr. Eilir Owen Griffiths: Pererin Wyf (Amazing Grace) 42

National Competitions Day 2

NATIONAL YOUTH CHOIR COMPETITION, 11:30 Codetta Youth Choir, Derry (Margaret Ross) 1. Alan Bullard: A bell-chime 2. Will Todd: All will be well North Belfast Youth Choir, Belfast (Katrina Brown) 1. Zulu Traditional, arr. Alexander L’Estrange: Hamba Lulu 2. Alison Willis: My boy Jack Codetta Junior Choir, Derry (Margaret Ross) 1. Ken Johnston: The wind that shakes the barley 2. Ben Parry: Eletelephony Loinnir Chamber Choir, Clare (Fiona Walsh) 1. Traditional Irish, arr. Ruth Elaine Schram: Shule Aroon 2. Andy Beck: Heartbeat rhythm St. Columb’s Cathedral Choristers, Derry (Nicky Morton) 1. John Rutter: The Lord bless you and keep you 2. CY Coleman, arr. Emerson: The Rhythm of Life Cór Linn, Dublin (Ciarán Kelly) 1. Kate Rusby: Underneath the stars 2. A.R. Rahman, arr. Ethan Sperry: Balleilakka

GUEST PERFORMANCE: ARDNASHEE SCHOOL AND COLLEGE, DERRY The adjudication of the National Sacred and Gospel and Youth Choir Competitions will take place immediately after the guest performance.

NATIONAL CHOIR OF THE FESTIVAL COMPETITION MILLENNIUM FORUM, 15:00 In this exciting final competition for national choirs, all choirs who have been awarded first place in any of the national categories, or who have been specially nominated by the adjudicators, will be eligible to compete for the title ‘National Choir of the Festival’.

43

Reach Your TrU Potential

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER

Closing Gala Concert Supported by FinTru

Presented by Eoghan Doherty Millennium Forum, 20:00

This celebratory concert brings the 13th Festival to a close with performances from each of the international competitors, the presentation of special awards across all categories, and the nail-biting announcement of the top prize of the festival – winners of the Oak Tree of Derry trophy.

With special thanks to FinTrU for their generous sponsorship of this event.

For more details on the international choirs, see pages 61 to 65.

PROGRAMME Laetare Vocal Ensemble, Ireland (Róisín Blunnie) 1. Jake Runestad: Nyon Nyon 2. Laura Sheils: The comet I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir, Estonia (Inta Roost) 1. Veljo Tormis, arr. Kadri Voorand: Ära löö noorikut 2. Veljo Tormis: Chastushka University College Cork (UCC) Singers, Ireland (Ben Jacob) 1. Irish Traditional, arr. Desmond Earley: Mo Ghile Mear 2. Irish Traditional, arr. Ben Jacob: The rattlin’ bog The Asaph Choir, Nigeria (Daniel Etim) 1. Z. Randall Stroope: The Conversion of Saul 2. D. K. Olukoya: As e dey pain dem University of Santo Tomas Singers, Philippines (Fidel Gener Calalang, Jr.) 1. Alan Dannug, arr. Normita Rio-Pablico: Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas (Choose Philippines) 2. Janet Hood, arr. Fidel Calalang, Jr.: Learning to let go INTERVAL AWARDS CEREMONY Closing ceremony of the festival, presentation of special awards and announcement of the winning choir of the 2025 Oak Tree of Derry International Competition.

45

Closing Gala Concert

Special Awards The festival is delighted that a number of special prizes will be awarded to choirs this year and is grateful to all of its supporters for their part in making this possible. All of the special awards will be announced during the Closing Gala Concert on Sunday 26 October.

•

Bernadette Kelly Memorial Award for most promising school choir

•

Bishops Daly & Mehaffey Award, presented by the Inner City Trust, for an outstanding performance in the school competitions

•

Sing Ireland Conducting Scholarship for the most promising conductor in the national competitions or a participant in the conducting masterclasses

•

Contemporary Music Centre Award for the best performance of a piece by a composer from Ireland

•

Derry City and Strabane District Council Award for outstanding contribution to the festival

•

Bishop’s Gate Hotel Award for an outstanding performance of a work composed before 1750 in the International Competition

•

City Hotel Award to the conductor of the most interesting and varied programme in the International Competition

•

Visit Derry Award for an outstanding competitive or non-competitive performance by a first-time participant

City of Derry Crystal Specialist Engravers Hand-cut Glass and Crystal Supplier and engravers of Trophies and Awards Unit 6, Diamond Park Pennyburn Industrial Estate Derry, BT48 0LU 46

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47

Community Programme Supported by Gray’s Communications

COMMUNITY CONCERTS Spread across the city and region, our community concerts offer a unique platform for local, national and international choirs to share music and the joy of singing together. Admission is free for all events.

All details correct at time of going to print. For updated schedules, visit derrychoirfest.com

THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER

Verbal Arts Centre, 13:00 University of Santo Tomas Singers, Philippines Doire Calgach Singers, Derry Lifford Old Courthouse, 18:00 Friends Together, Derry Cathedral Youth Club, 19:00 Inishowen Gospel Choir, Donegal Ardmore Folk Group, Derry

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Ardnashee School & College, Northland Road, 10:00 Doire Calgach Singers, Derry Bishop’s Field Community Centre, 11:00 Mellow DEEDS, Derry University of Santo Tomas Singers, Philippines Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, 12:30 Hive Cancer Support Choir, Derry Tuned In Collective, Derry Song for the Soul, Derry I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir, Estonia

48

Community Concerts

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER

Shantallow Community Centre, 13:00 MTU Glór Choral Society, Cork Melodies and Memories, Derry Momentum Community Choir, Derry Carlisle Road Methodist Church, 13:00 Sing Happy NI Sligo Orpheus Choir Conwal Parish Church, Letterkenny, 13:00 Humanophones, France Danu Young Women’s Choir, Donegal Conwal Singers, Donegal Museum of Free Derry, 13:30 Ardmore Folk Group, Derry Helen’s Bay Singers, Down Gasyard Development Trust, 14:00 Aria Ladies Choir, Kildare Big Belfast Choir Culmore Community Hub, 14:00 Culmore Community Choir Different Keys, Monaghan Bishop Street Freemason’s Hall, 14:30 Cavan Singers Hive Cancer Support Choir, Derry Côr Godre’r Garth, Wales The Exchange, Buncrana, 16:00 Doire Calgach Singers, Derry Donogh Choir, Donegal

49

Community Concerts

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER

First Derry Presbyterian Church, 13:00 Rosemount Male Voice Choir, Derry Colmcille Ladies Choir, Derry Moville Methodist Church Hall, 14:00 Momentum Community Choir, Derry Melodies and Memories, Derry Eglinton Community Centre, 14:00 University of Santo Tomas Singers, Philippines Thyme to Sing, Derry Bluestack Chorale, Donegal All Saints Centre, 14:30 Cavan Singers Doire Calgach Singers, Derry St. Mary’s Hall, Buncrana, 15:00 UCC Singers, Cork Inishowen Gateway Singers

CHORAL TRAILS The festival goes out and about, with pop-up events in public spaces, transport hubs, hotels, cafés and shopping centres, bringing the city alive with song.

WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER 12:00

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Foyleside Shopping Centre Tuned In Collective, Derry

15:00

North West Cancer Centre Scrubs CUH Workplace Choir, Cork

18:00

Holiday Inn Express Scrubs CUH Workplace Choir, Cork

50

Choral Trails

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER 11:00

Sandwich Co. (The Diamond) OLV Gospel Choir, Dublin

11:00 12:00 13:00

Lisnagelvin Shopping Centre Different Keys, Monaghan Aria Ladies Choir, Kildare Thyme 2 Sing, Derry

Donegal - Brand New for 2025

11:00 Donegal - Brand New for 2025

11:30

Courtyard Shopping Centre, Letterkenny Momentum Community Choir Outside Greenes Shoes, Letterkenny Inishowen Gospel Choir

12:00

Dillon’s Hotel, Letterkenny The New Land Choir

11:30

Derry Girls Mural Quire LGBTQ+ Singers, Belfast

11:20 12:20 14:20 15:20 16:20

Northwest Transport Hub Sing Happy NI Cavan Singers Rosemount Male Voice Choir Sligo Orpheus Choir Helen’s Bay Singers

11:45

The Peace Bridge Scrubs CUH Workplace Choir, Cork

12:05

Millennium Forum Piazza Big Belfast Choir

16:20 16:40 17:00

Foyleside Shopping Centre Hive Cancer Support Choir Momentum Community Choir MTU Glór Choral Society, Cork

18:00

Guildhall Square Quire LGBTQ+ Singers, Belfast

Donegal - Brand New for 2025

51

Choral Trails

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER continued 18:00 18:20 18:40

Ebrington Hotel, Corner Bar Thyme to Sing, Derry Ardmore Folk Group, Derry Cairde Community Choir, Belfast

18:15 18:40

Holiday Inn Express Harmony Federation, Dublin Schola Cantorum Basilicae, Mayo

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER 13:00

The Sandwich Co. (The Diamond) Ardmore Folk Group, Derry

13:30

Millennium Forum Piazza Cairde Community Choir, Belfast

14:00

IOSAS Centre Laetare Vocal Ensemble, Dublin

14:00 14:20 14:40

Kaboodle Donogh Choir, Donegal Big Belfast Choir Côr Godre’r Garth, Wales

15:00

The Peace Bridge Ardmore Folk Group

15:30 15:50 14:10

Ebrington Hotel, Corner Bar Vox Orbis, Galway OLV Gospel Choir, Dublin Bluestack Chorale, Donegal

16:00

Derry Girls Mural Big Belfast Choir

16:00 16:20

Foyleside Shopping Centre Cairde Community Choir, Belfast Donogh Choir, Donegal

52

Sacred Trials

SACRED TRAILS Local and visiting choirs take choral music into services of worship across the city.

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER 10:00

Carlisle Road Methodist Church Bluestack Chorale, Donegal

11:00

St. Augustine’s Church I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir, Estonia

11:00

All Saint’s Church of Ireland, Clooney Hive Cancer Support Choir

11:00

Christ Church University of Santo Tomas Singers, Philippines

11:00

St. Columb’s Cathedral UCC Singers, Cork

11:30

First Derry Presbyterian Church Laetare Vocal Ensemble, Dublin

12:15

Sacred Heart Church, Trench Road Sacred Heart Primary School, Derry

12:30

St. Mary’s Oratory, Buncrana Inishowen Gospel Choir, Donegal

VOLUNTEERS for Community Programme: Andrew Bowler Margaret Brown Moira Burns Gerry Cassidy Savanna-Rose Cooper Hugo Crumlish Rosemary Duffy Toni Forrester Thomas Garside John Keys Wendy Keys Donna Lough

With thanks to the CoDICF Community Advisory Group: Siobhan Heaney, Margarette McNamee and Martin White

Alexei Mangan Frank McClintock Jeni McClintock Paul McLaughlin Gráinne McNamara Margarette McNamee Jazmin O’Donnell Sky Patton Chris Roberts Alfred Salva Lillymae Seal Campbell Tennis

53

29TH APRIL - 3RD MAY 2026 CLOSING DATES: FLEISCHMANN INTERNATIONAL TROPHY COMPETITION 31st October INTERNATIONAL NON-COMPETITIVE CHOIRS 30th November NATIONAL COMPETITIONS 16th January NATIONAL NON-COMPETITIVE CHOIRS 6th February

REGISTRATIONS AT WWW.CORKCHORAL.IE

ADJUDICATORS

Josep Vila i Casañas Catalonia | Chair of the Adjudicating Panel

Josep Vila i Casañas is one of

Palau de la Música Catalana

As a composer, his main area of

the most recognised choral

(2011-2016) and the Radiotel-

interest is music for voice and

conductors in Spain. His

evisión Española Choir (2007-

instruments, and he has written

specialism is the a cappella

2010).

an extensive body of works for children’s and youth choirs,

repertoire, as well as choral and orchestral literature

Josep has worked as a guest

for mixed a cappella choirs

down the ages. He is also a

conductor with choirs and

and for choir and orchestra.

composer of many works for

orchestras such as the Coeur

Sanctus-Benedictus (1992) and

choir and orchestra.

de Radio France in Paris, the

Salve Regina (2001) are his two

Spanish National Choir, the

most frequently performed

Josep is currently the Chief

Swedish Radio Choir and the

works.

Conductor of the MDR

World Youth Choir (2010 and

Rundfunkchor in Leipzig,

2019). In his role as a chorus

Since 2005, he has taught choir

Germany. He has served as

master, he has worked along-

conducting at the Catalonia

the resident conductor of

side leading orchestral conduc-

Music Conservatory, Esmuc. He

the Coro de la Comunidad de

tors on the international music

also gives workshops, seminars

Madrid (2022-2025), the Cor

scene, among them Charles Du-

and masterclasses on a regular

Lieder Càmera (1990-2006 &

toit, Daniel Barenboim, Daniele

basis throughout Europe.

2019-2022), the Orfeó Català

Gatti, Simon Rattle and Gustavo

choral society (1998-2016),

Dudamel.

the Cor de Cambra of the

55

ADJUDICATORS

Amy Bebbington England

Sought-after for her dynam-

With a degree in Piano Perfor-

A trained dancer, Amy applies

ic and engaging teaching

mance (UK) and a Doctorate

Kodály, Dalcroze and Laban

style, and her wealth of ped-

in Choral Conducting (USA),

principles in her work with

agogical experience, Amy is

Amy is the Director of Training

choirs and conductors. She

known for championing and

for the Association of British

is known for her advocacy

inspiring young musicians

Choral Directors and co-found-

for female conductors and

in all disciplines. She is a

er of the London International

composers, and champions

passionate advocate of the

Choral Conducting Competi-

marginalised musicians through

craft of choral singing and

tion (LICCC). She leads choral

innovative choral programming,

choral conductor training,

conducting masterclasses

discovery days and private

and truly values the privilege

and teaches at international

mentoring.

of adjudicating having been

summer schools, including Cork,

on juries at the London Inter-

Limerick and Sherborne. Amy’s

Amy has choral works published

national Choral Conducting

successful online training

by Banks Music Publications,

Competition, the Internation-

course, Choral Leadership and

Multitude of Voyces and Choral

al Choir Festivals in Derry and

Pedagogy (CLP), created as a

Music Publishing, and is proud

Cork, Feis Ceoil, Choir of the

direct result of the pandemic,

to be Musical Director of Corra

Year, Music for Youth Nation-

enabled her to engage with

Sound, Harlequin Chamber

al Festival, Cheltenham Music

choral conductors from all over

Choir, Nota Bene and Sempre

Festival and many others.

the world.

Fidelis Singers.

56

ADJUDICATORS

Mark Duley New Zealand / Ireland

Mark Duley was born in

a conductor and organist, he

acclaim internationally, with

Hawkes Bay, New Zealand,

has appeared with most of the

a recent recording for the

and studied at Auckland

major Irish ensembles, including

Resonus label of music by

University, the North German

RTÉ National Symphony Or-

Thomas Weelkes (Gentleman

Organ Academy and Amster-

chestra, RTÉ Concert Orchestra,

Extraordinary) receiving the

dam’s Sweelinck Conserv-

Chamber Choir Ireland, the Irish

accolade of Editor’s Choice for

atorium, where he was an

Baroque Orchestra, and his own

Gramophone magazine. Aside

organ pupil of Jacques van

chamber choir, Resurgam. He

from a busy freelance career,

Oortmerssen.

has given organ recitals in all

Mark holds the posts of or-

the major Irish venues as well

ganist at the Collegiate Church

Mark came to Ireland in

as in the UK and his native New

of St. Nicholas, Galway, and

1992 and has held several

Zealand.

founder-director of St Nicholas

major posts in the coun-

Schola Cantorum.

try, including organist and

Mark is one of Ireland’s best

director of music at Christ

known choral specialists,

Church Cathedral Dublin,

and has led workshops and

chorusmaster to the RTÉ

masterclasses for choirs and

Philharmonic Choir, artistic

conductors in Ireland, the UK,

director of the Irish Baroque

and continental Europe. His

Orchestra, and artistic

work as artistic director of

director of Pipeworks. As

Resurgam has received critical

57

ADJUDICATORS

Mia Makaroff Finland

Mia Makaroff (b.1970) is a

her specialities: altogether six

cator and a teacher at choir

composer, arranger, music

school musicals have been

competitions and festivals.

teacher and a choir conduc-

written and performed by her

tor. In 2003, she graduated

pupils. Finnish folklore and

Theatre music is one of her

from the Sibelius Academy

poetry are great sources of

main interests: 2012 saw the

as a Master of Music in Music

inspiration in her compositions.

premiere of her first musical for

Education studies. Her thesis

​

children and adults, Kruunu-

focused on creating a music

Many well-known singing

lapset (Crown Children). She

teaching pedagogy using

groups and choirs have

is currently working to build a

the therapeutical sides of

brought Mia’s music to a wider

national network of non-audi-

music especially aimed espe-

audience, such as Rajaton,

tioned and inclusive children’s

cially at preventing youth

The King’s Singers, Amarcord

and youth choirs, known as

drug addiction.

and others. In 2006, she was

MunKuoro (munkuoro.fi) or

asked to participate in an

MinKör (minkör.fi).

Mia’s work includes teaching

international Song Bridge-choir

music to school children and

project as a composer.

young people, composing, creating and conducting

She has given masterclasses in

different music projects.

composing for children’s choirs

Song-writing projects for

in Belgium, Italy and Russia. She

young people are one of

has also worked as an adjudi-

58

ADJUDICATORS

Andrew Nunn Scotland

Andrew Nunn holds three

At the RCS, Andrew is also di-

degrees from the Royal Con-

rector of the RCS Choir for un-

servatoire of Scotland (RCS):

dergraduate vocal performance

a BMus(Hons), an MMus

students, a Kodály Musician-

(Performance) and a Masters

ship lecturer and conducting

in Conducting.

lecturer for Musical Theatre. He

Since 2018, Andrew has

also works regularly with adult

held the position of Artistic

choirs and, since 2014, has

Director of the National

been director of the Bearsden

Youth Choir of Northern

Choir, one of Scotland’s finest

Ireland (NYCNI), and he is

choral societies.

responsible for the artistic

Andrew was also director of

delivery and direction of the

the Les Sirènes Female Choir

organisation’s five choirs.

when it won the BBC Choir of

Since 2012, Andrew has been

the Year competition in 2012.

Director of Choirs at the RCS

He regularly prepares choruses

Junior Conservatoire where

for the BBC Scottish Symphony

he has developed a choral

Orchestra and his choirs are

programme of five choirs

in high demand, broadcasting

involving around 300 singers

regularly on both BBC television

aged 8 to 18 every Saturday.

and radio.

59

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evergladeshotelderry.com 60

INTERNATIONAL CHOIRS

The Asaph Choir Nigeria | Daniel Etim Conductor

As of 2024, Choir Place

and other African dialects, and

ranked the Asaph Choir as

have a repertoire that includes

the number one professional

hymns, anthems, and original

choir in Nigeria, highlighting

compositions.

its musical excellence and impact.

The choir operates under the leadership of Dr. D.K. Olukoya,

The Asaph Choir is known for

who has a strong passion for

highly skilled performances,

music and worship. They also

blending classical, contem-

mentor and train younger

porary gospel, and African

musicians, raising the next

choral styles. They perform

generation of gospel choristers

in multiple languages,

and instrumentalists.

including English, Yoruba,

61

INTERNATIONAL CHOIRS

I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir Estonia | Inta Roost Conductor

I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir was formed

to perform a wide range of

In 2022, I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir was

at the initiative of its conduc-

repertoire, ranging from clas-

awarded Choir of the Year of

tor, Inta Roost, in 2003. Rep-

sical choral masterpieces to

Estonia and its conductor was

resenting the culturally rich

contemporary works and tradi-

nominated for Conductor of

nation of Estonia, the choir

tional Estonian folk songs.

the Year.

of passionate voices united by

The choir is a member of the

Whether performing in concert

their love of choral music.

Association of Estonian Mixed

halls or outdoor settings, the

Choirs and actively performs in

I.N.T.A. Mixed Choir delivers a

Established with the aim of

concerts and choir competi-

memorable experience, leaving

celebrating Estonia’s proud

tions in Estonia, winning several

audiences inspired and uplift-

choral singing tradition, the

prizes.

ed. With a deep commitment

presents a harmonious blend

choir brings together singers

to artistic growth and cultural

from diverse backgrounds

exchange, it is a proud ambassador of Estonia’s rich musical legacy.

62

INTERNATIONAL CHOIRS

Laetare Vocal Ensemble Ireland | Róisín Blunnie Conductor

Laetare Vocal Ensemble is a

Laetare’s competition success-

Róisín is Associate Professor of

mixed-voice choir based in

es include the ‘Ireland’s Choir

Music and Head of the School

Dublin city centre. Founded

of the Year’ award at the Cork

of Theology, Philosophy, and

in 2014, the choir is active

International Choral Festival;

Music at Dublin City University,

in concerts, festivals, col-

2nd prize and the special award

where she is also the Pro-

laborations, commissions,

to a conductor at the City

gramme Chair of Ireland’s first

and recordings. Laetare’s

of Derry International Choir

M.A. in Choral Studies.

latest album is the critically

Festival; and a Gold Diploma

acclaimed Ghost Songs: Con-

in the Grand Prix final of the

temporary Music and Words

Ave Verum International Choral

from Ireland, a 35-track

Festival, Austria.

collection of choral works interspersed with readings

The choir was founded by its

by leading Irish poets and

conductor Dr Róisín Blunnie.

writers.

63

INTERNATIONAL CHOIRS

University College Cork (UCC) Singers, Ireland Ireland | Ben Jacob Conductor

UCC Singers is the compet-

performing contemporary and

February 2025, it was delighted

itive sub-choir of Univer-

sacred repertoire. Last year, its

to receive 1st place in both

sity College Cork’s Choral

annual sold-out concerts, ‘Car-

the Sacred Music and Ireland’s

Society and is currently

ols by Candlelight’ and ‘Sounds

University Choir of the Year

conducted by Ben Jacob.

of Spring’ raised over €4,000

competitions. At the 2025 Cork

Formed in September 2014, it

for charity.

International Choral Festival, it received first place in the

recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. UCC Singers is

In 2024, the choir competed in

Church Music category, won

active during the academ-

the City of Derry International

the Ireland’s Choir of the Year

ic year and comprises 35

Choir Festival, where it placed

competition, and was awarded

students who rehearse every

first in the Mixed Voice com-

the Victor Leeson Perpetual

Wednesday. It performs

petition. At the revival of the

Trophy.

a wide variety of music

All-Ireland Choral Intervarsity in

with a special interest in

64

INTERNATIONAL CHOIRS

University of Santo Tomas Singers

Philippines | Fidel Gener Calalang, Jr. Conductor

Founded in 1992 by Professor

region.

Trophy twice at the world’s

Fidel Gener Calalang, Jr., the

With members comprising of

oldest choir competition, the

University of Santo Tomas

select students and alumni

Llangollen International Musical

Singers is the premier mixed

from the different colleges,

Eisteddfod in Wales, the United

choral ensemble of the Pon-

institutes, and faculties within

Kingdom.

tifical and Royal University of

the university, the choir has

Santo Tomas.

earned critical acclaim, winning

Despite the challenges of the

more than 85 top prizes in the

recent global pandemic, the

For over 30 years, UST Singers

world’s most prestigious com-

choir continues its mission of

has taken part in internation-

petitions worldwide. Notably,

sharing goodwill and the Philip-

al concert and competition

it has the distinction of being

pines’ rich culture and heritage

tours showcasing Thomasian

the only choir to win the Choir

through music.

excellence and Filipino artistry

of the World – Luciano Pavarotti

across Europe, North America, Australia, and the Asia Pacific

65

5th – 7th June 2026 Enjoy Concerts, Workshops, Choral Trail Activities, an Outdoor Chorus and Festival Clubs during this leading non-competitive Choral Festival based in the Medieval City of Limerick, Ireland! this year’s Festival, enjoy a concert 9th – During 11th Junewith 2023 and workshop renowned vocal ensemble Apollo5, and join other choirs

Enjoy Concerts, Workshops, Trail Activities, for a unique Choral Outdoor Chorus at a stunning an Outdoor Chorus and Festival Clubs during this tourist destination, led by a celebrated leading non-competitive Choral Festival based in choral conductor! the Medieval City of Limerick, Ireland!

Accommodation from just

During this year’s Festival enjoy a concert and with €80.50 per room, perworkshop night B&B! world renowned choral group, The King’s Singers, and join 3-Day Package: her choirs for a unique Outdoor Chorus at the Cliffs of Moher, Priority (closes 19th December): led by a celebrated Irish conductor. €240 per person AccommodationGeneral options(closes available 27thfrom February): 3 star self-catering to€250 4 starper hotels! person 3 Day Package - €185 per person.

E. information@limericksings.com + 353 61 213312 Bespoke options T. available. www.limericksings.com

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EVENING CONCERT PRESENTERS

John Toal International Competition, Guildhall Saturday 25 October, 20:00

John Toal is an award-winning

He now talks more than

broadcaster. He started out as a

sings, and presents ‘Classical

boy soprano and sang in choirs

Connections’ on Sunday

for many years, but those days

night and the IMRO 2025 Gold

are sadly gone.

Award-winning ‘Saturday with John Toal’ on BBC Radio Ulster and Foyle. He is also a regular contributor to RTÉ’s ‘Sunday Miscellany’.

Eoghan Doherty Closing Gala Concert and Awards, Millennium Forum Sunday 26 October, 20:00 Eoghan is Creative Director at

The Big Reviewski, Ireland’s

Ardmore, one of Ireland and

number-one film and TV

the UK’s leading independent

podcast. Interviewees include

creative agencies. He was pre-

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Robert

viously Content Editor at the

DeNiro, Daniel Craig, Will Ferrell,

award-winning website JOE,

Margot Robbie, Jamie Dornan,

where he helped oversee the

Anne Hathaway, Keanu Reeves,

development of the brand into

Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Affleck,

one of Europe’s most promi-

Sylvester Stallone and Denzel

nent digital publishers.

Washington.

He is a highly experienced

A graduate of Music and Eng-

interviewer, broadcast jour-

lish Literature from University

nalist and MC, contributing

College Dublin, Eoghan is an

to numerous productions on

oboist, violinist and member

BBC, RTÉ, Virgin Media, UTV and

of the acclaimed Derry-based

Today FM, as well as creating,

chamber choir Codetta.

presenting and producing 67

YOUR FESTIVAL MEET UP SPOT SIP. EAT. PLAY.

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FINAL HOMES

Life By The Shore’s Edge A select development of finely crafted, detached 4 bedroom homes overlooking the banks of the Foyle.

CPS Estate Agents

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Thank You! The City of Derry International Choir Festival is produced in association with Walled City Music and wishes to thank: FESTIVAL FUNDERS Arts Council of Northern Ireland Derry City and Strabane District Council Arts & Business Northern Ireland FESTIVAL SPONSORS FinTrU Gray’s Communications Heron Bros.

McGinnis Group Caldwell & Robinson FESTIVAL PARTNERS Codetta Sing Ireland Contemporary Music Centre, Ireland Ulster University Choral Festival Network City Hotel HOSPITALITY PARTNERS Bishop’s Gate Hotel Ebrington Hotel Everglades Hotel Holiday Inn Express Badgers Bar and Restaurant The Sandwich Co.

ife By The Shore’s Edge

evelopment of finely crafted, detached homes overlooking the banks of the Foyle.

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FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL LARGO FRIENDS Bernadette Kiely Brid and Don McGinley ANDANTE FRIENDS Caroline Connolly James Cooke David Flanagan Nuala and Bill Hart Shane Lynch Sharon Moroney Judith O’Hare Joy Tennis Martin White ALLEGRO FRIENDS Seamus and Patricia Brady James and Pat Crosbie Donald Hill Celine McDaid John and Catriona McGonigle Des and Jennifer Rainey VIVACE FRIENDS Mark McKeever Anonymous x 2

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Special thanks to...

Pól Sheerin, PS Audio Rory McSwiggan and Danny Kelly, R&D Media Shaun Ryan, Ulster University Dermot O’Callaghan, Sing Ireland Ben McGonigle, Festival Accompanist Rory Clements, Limavady Pianos David McLaughlin, Millennium Forum Amanda Creagh, Guildhall Julie O’Loughlin, Model PS Louis Fields and Nicky Morton, St. Columb’s School of Music Siobhan Heaney, Community Advisory Group Margarette McNamee, Community Advisory Group Karen Henderson, Visit Derry Johanne Jefferson, Ivyhill Digital FESTIVAL STAFF Dónal Doherty, Artistic Director Matthew Greenall, Executive Director, Walled City Music Fiona Crosbie, Festival Manager Mairéad Nic Bhloscaidh, Community and Outreach Coordinator Robert Egan, Digital Marketing Officer and Graphic Design Aoife Mullan, Festival Assistant FESTIVAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Philip Gilliland, Chair Tessa Breslin Colm Rainey Gráinne Stevenson Joy Tennis Martin White

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VOLUNTEERS Betty Beattie John Huw Cleghorn James Cooke Pat Crosbie Brendan Doherty Columb Duffy Bronagh Elliott Nicky Fallon Olumide Fariogun Toni Forrester Fiona Hamilton Pam Hardeman Rachel Harkin Kevin Healy Jenny Huey Jenne Kamara Rachel Kelly Charlie Kelpie Chris Kerrigan Fidelma Legge Jason Loughrey Kathy Lynch Grainne McAnaney

Margaret McCay Hayley McGivern Aaron McGlinchey Pauline McGuinness Julia McIvor Paul McLaughlin Isabel McNally Emma Moore Linda Morgan Jenny O’Donnell Helen O’Hare Anuradha Panchapagesan Sky Patton Jolanta Rakus Ivor Ramsey Roisin Rice Margaret Ross Vanessa Schverdfinger Aaron Slattery Barry Toorish Stephanie Warne Stephanie Whelan Gabriel Wong

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Competition / Concert Schedule WEDNESDAY 22 OCTOBER

THURSDAY 23 OCTOBER

FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER

Festival Forum 2025 Ulster University 10:00 – 11:30

Primary School Big Sing with Laura McFall Millennium Forum 10:00 – 13:00

Post-Primary School Competitions and Big Sing Workshop with Humanophones Millennium Forum 10:00 – 14:30

Conducting Masterclass Ulster University 12:00 – 14:00

The Marian Consort Guildhall 19:30

Humanophones Millennium Forum 19:30

Opening Gala Concert: A Night at the Opera Festival Chorus, Ulster Orchestra and Irish National Opera Soloists Millennium Forum 19:30

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Cathedral Light 20|25 St. Eugene’s Cathedral 22:00

SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER

SUNDAY 26 OCTOBER

Equal Voice Competitions and Adjudication Millennium Forum 10:00

Sacred and Gospel Competition Millennium Forum 10:00

Mixed Voice Competition Millennium Forum 12:30

Youth Choir Competition Millennium Forum 11:30

Light, Pop and Jazz Competition Millennium Forum 14:00

Sacred and Gospel/ Youth Choir Adjudications 13:00

Big Sing with Humanophones Millennium Forum 16:00 Mixed Voice/Light, Pop and Jazz Adjudications

National Choir of the Festival Competition Millennium Forum 15:00

International Competition Guildhall 20:00

Closing Gala Concert Millennium Forum 20:00

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