6th European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025 - Program Book

EUROPEAN CHOIR GAMES &
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
AARHUS 2025
JUNE 28 - JULY 6, 2025
Program Book
PROGRAM BOOK

JUNE 28 - JULY 6, 2025

EVENTS
2026
Sing
from
Kobe
INTERNATIONAL CHOIR COMPETITIONS AND FESTIVALS
01
03
03
04
05
06
09
09
09
10
10
4 TH SING FROM KOBE
January 15-19, 2026 | Kobe, Japan
CANTAQUERA – FESTIVAL CORAL INTERNACIONAL
March 12-16, 2026 | Antequera, Spain
5 TH VOX LUCENSIS – CONCORSO CORALE INTERNAZIONALE
March 28 - April 1, 2026 | Lucca, Italy
16 TH INTERNATIONAL CHOIR COMPETITION AND FESTIVAL BAD ISCHL
April 29 - May 3, 2026 | Salzkammergut, Austria
NORDIC VOICES CHOIR FESTIVAL
May 14-18, 2026 | Lahti, Finland
SING ALONG CONCERT MÁLAGA
June 18-20, 2026 | Málaga, Spain
INTERNATIONAL CHOIR COMPETITION BLACKPOOL
September 10-14, 2026 | Blackpool, Great Britain
INTERNATIONALES CHORFEST MAGDEBURG
September 16-20, 2026 | Magdeburg, Germany
11 TH ISOLA DEL SOLE
September 27 - October 1, 2026 | Grado, Italy
6 TH KALAMATA INTERNATIONAL CHOIR COMPETITION AND FESTIVAL
October 8-12, 2026 | Kalamata, Greece
SING FOR GOLD – THE WORLD CHORAL CUP
October 22-26, 2026 | Calella & Barcelona, Catalonia (Spain)
as of May 20254
interkultur.com /interkultur @interkulturevents @interkulturevents

ORGANIZER
Organizer
INTERKULTUR
and
Musikhuset Aarhus
Aarhus Events
City of Aarhus
Central Denmark Region
President INTERKULTUR
Günter Titsch (Germany)
Honorary Artistic Presidents
Prof. Xiaoying Zheng (China)
Prof. Dr. Ralf Eisenbeiß (Germany)
John Rutter (Great Britain)
Prof. Dr. Hak-Won Yoon (Republic of Korea)
Prof. Dr. Morten Lauridsen (USA)
Artistic Committee of the 6 th European Choir
Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Fred Sjöberg (Sweden)
Maarten Van Ingelgem (Belgium)
Prof. Dr. Ralf Eisenbeiß (Germany)
Prof. Romāns Vanags (Latvia)
Johan Rooze (Netherlands)
Project Management of the 6 th European Choir
Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Lene Juul Langballe (Denmark)
Iris Huting Byrd (China)
INTERKULTUR Executive Committee
Günter Titsch (Germany)
Qin Wang (China)
Stefan Bohländer (Germany)
ORGANIZER
5

TABLE OF CONTENT
Welcome
Organizer 5
Greetings 10
Honorary Committee 16
National Organizing Committee 18
Acknowledgement 19
International Organizing Committee 20
Artistic Committee 22
...Connecting Bridges 26
World Choir Council 32
6 th European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Idea and Concept 40
Welcome to Aarhus 42
Singing Together - The Danish Choral Tradition 46
The Aarhus Stage 48
ReThinkers - the Aarhus Volunteer Organization 49
Participating Countries & Regions 50
Adjudicators & Clinicians 52
Official Song “The Infinite Bridge” 65
Medals and Trophies 70
Venues 72
City Map 78
6

Events
Saturday, June 28, 2025 84
Sunday, June 29, 2025 88
Monday, June 30, 2025 96
Tuesday, July 1, 2025 104
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 114
Thursday, July 3, 2025 118
Friday, July 4, 2025 122
Saturday, July 5, 2025 132
Sunday, July 6, 2025 142
Participants
Participating choirs and ensembles 154
Information
Imprint 190
Photo Credits 191
TABLE OF CONTENT
7

8

GREETINGS
9

GREETINGS
Dear choirs, dear singers, dear friends,
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to the 6 th European Choir
Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025.
Günter Titsch
President INTERKULTUR
For the first time, this prestigious international INTERKULTUR event
will take place in fabulous Denmark. The European Choir Games are
the continental version of the World Choir Games, the Olympic Games
of choral music. European choirs will showcase their talents in the
renowned Champions Competition. At the same time, we have once again
invited choirs from all over the world to take part in the Open Competition
and the impressive Grand Prix of Nations. All events demonstrate the
extraordinarily high quality of choirs from many nations and the incredible
diversity of expression across all musical genres. Whether you experience
a children’s or adult choir, sacred choral music or folklore, jazz or pop
choirs, we can all expect an event of superlatives. We can all look forward
to a truly exceptional event!
More than 130 choirs from 35 countries and regions will take part in our
peaceful competition and demonstrate through their collective voices that
our Choral Olympic motto ‘Singing together brings nations together’ unites
people in peace and joy of choral music and provides impressive answers
and alternatives to social rejection. Their performances will offer powerful
and inspiring responses to social divisions.
My heartfelt gratitude goes to our Danish colleagues and friends for their
outstanding cooperation, as well as the great collaboration with the city of
Aarhus and the dedicated organizing committee. It is a great honor for us
to enjoy these fantastic concert halls and to make singing a truly unique
experience in such a modern and colorful city, rich in architecture and
cultural inspiration. Aarhus will rightfully be called the ‘capital of musicmaking’
during these days.
I warmly welcome each and every one of you and convey my best wishes for
the days ahead. May the joy of music unite us all, and may this competition
serve as a shining example of the power of cultural exchange to bring us
closer together.
I wish you all unforgettable experiences, much success and immense joy!
Günter Titsch
President of the European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations
INTERKULTUR & World Choir Council
10

Aarhus is an international city.
Over the past decades, Aarhus has evolved from being a city in Europe to a
truly European city. Numerous international media outlets have highlighted
our city as a must-visit destination, and Aarhus has become a popular place
for tourists from all over the world.
This is because we have something to offer – small and large cultural
institutions, events, the bay, nature, and the unique ‘Aarhus vibe.’ The
European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025 is part of
a series of major international events that Aarhus has had the honor of
hosting.
I am proud that our city has become a sought-after place to visit and to
host major events. The reason we have successfully organized large-scale
events is that the entire city stands behind them. The people of Aarhus
support the city’s events – both as an audience and as active participants.
That is why I am also looking forward to Aarhus experiencing the European
Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025 – and for the choir
festival, its participants, and its audience to experience Aarhus.
Welcome to Aarhus and the European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations
Aarhus 2025!
Anders Winnerskjold
Mayor of Aarhus
Anders Winnerskjold
Mayor of Aarhus
GREETINGS
11

GREETINGS
This summer, Aarhus will be filled with song.
The sound of voices will resonate throughout the city, bringing us together
in new communities.
The European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025 will be
a grand celebration. Some of the world’s best choirs will come to the city,
offering plenty of opportunities to experience world-class singing.
There is something special about singing together with others. We
experienced this during COVID-19 when singing helped strengthen our
sense of community while the world was shut down. Aarhus itself has
some outstanding choirs that have brought prestigious singing awards
home to the city. That is why I am incredibly pleased that our city is hosting
the European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025.
Rabih Azad-Ahmad
Cultural Mayor of Aarhus
Aarhus is, after all, a city of music. Music is a significant part of our DNA,
across all genres. Whether one enjoys symphonic music or stadium rock,
there is something for everyone. This also applies to talent development.
For many years, Aarhus has worked on a cultural pipeline, aiming to
nurture local talent while also attracting talents from outside.
All of this is driven by our deep love for music. That is why it is only natural
that the European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations is being held in
Aarhus this year. I know that the people of Aarhus and the city’s visitors will
welcome the event with open arms and ears.
I am looking forward to it. And just as much, I am looking forward to sharing
this experience together.
See you at the European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025!
Rabih Azad-Ahmad
Cultural Mayor of Aarhus
12

Festival Coral
Internacional
MARCH 12-16, 2026 | ANTEQUERA, SPAIN
interkultur.com/Antequera2026
GREETINGS
13

14

ORGANIZERS
15

HONORARY COMMITTEE
Honorary Artistic Presidents
Prof. Xiaoying Zheng
China
Prof. Dr. Ralf Eisenbeiß
Germany
John Rutter
Great Britain
Prof. Dr. Hak-Won Yoon
Republic of Korea
Prof. Dr. Morten Lauridsen
USA
16

Honorary Ambassadors, Advisors & Members
Prof. Alejandro Daniel Garavano
(Argentina)
Tigran Hekekyan (Armenia)
David Slater (Australia)
Konrad Fleischanderl (Austria)
Fritz Hinterdorfer (Austria)
Prof. Herbert Wild (Austria)
Theodora Pavlovitch (Bulgaria)
Don James (Canada)
Peizhi Li (China)
Canrong Ma (China)
Dapeng Meng (China)
Guanghui Chen (China)
Li Yang (China)
Prof. Lingfen Wu (China)
Raymond Fu (China/Hong Kong SAR)
Prof. Dirk Duhei (Chinese Taipei)
Pascal Koua (Cote d‘Ivoire)
Branko Stark (Croatia)
María Felicia Pérez (Cuba)
Vlastislav Novák (Czech Republic)
Steen Lindholm (Denmark)
Aarne Saluveer (Estonia)
Willy Becker (Germany)
Prof. Jürgen Budday (Germany)
Rainer Eichorn (Germany)
Jürgen Faßbender (Germany)
Peter Gaffert (Germany)
Ludwig Hoffmann (Germany)
Dieter Topp (Germany)
Christian Santos (Gibraltar)
Katalin Kiss (Hungary)
Levente Gyöngyösi (Hungary)
Ágnes Kovácsne Biró (Hungary)
Sarolta Peczely-Kodaly (Hungary)
Þorgerður Ingólfsdóttir (Iceland)
Giovanni Acciai (Italy)
Prof. Vytautas Miškinis (Lithuania)
John Galea (Malta)
Christopher Muscat (Malta)
Gerardo Rábago Palafox (Mexico)
Karen L. Grylls (New Zealand)
Tove Ramlo-Ystad (Norway)
Jonathan Velasco (Philippines)
Kinga Litowska (Poland)
Prof. Vladimir Minin (Russia)
Pavel Pozhigailo (Russia)
Prof. Alexander Solovyev (Russia)
Karmina Šilec (Slovenia)
André van der Merwe (South Africa)
Òscar Boada (Spain)
Montserrat Candini i Puig (Spain)
Soundarie David (Sri Lanka)
Khunying Malaival Boonyaratavej
(Thailand)
Anton Armstrong (USA)
Dr. Gene Brooks (USA)
John Haberlen (USA)
T.J. Harper (USA)
André de Quadros (USA)
Andre J. Thomas (USA)
in Memoriam
Honorary Presidents
in Memoriam
Honorary Ambassadors, Advisors & Members
Prof. Hongnian Yang (China)
Walter Scheel (Germany)
Prof. Paul Wehrle (Germany)
Mikis Theodorakis (Greece)
Prof. Eric Ericson (Sweden)
Christian Ljunggren (Sweden)
Baldur Heckel (Austria)
Félix Nassi (Benin)
Prof. Guangyi Lai (China)
Prof. Geshun Ma (China)
Yubin Tian (China)
Xiyi Xu (China)
Prof. Zuqiang Wu (China)
Liangkun Yan (China)
Luis A. Olivieri (Comm. of Puerto Rico)
Jacques Vanherle (France)
Gotthilf Fischer (Germany)
Hans-Dietrich Genscher (Germany)
Prof. Dr. Friedrich Krell (Germany)
Elfa Secioria (Indonesia)
Aida Swenson (Indonesia)
Henry Klausner (Israel)
Boris Tevlin (Russia)
Dr. Sibongile Khumalo (South Africa)
Erich Kunzel (USA)
HONORARY COMMITTEE
17

NATIONAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Jeppe Uggerhøj
Artistic Director, Musikhuset Aarhus
Lene Juul Langballe
National Artistic Director & Project
Manager, ECG & GPoN Aarhus 2025
Jens Johansen
National Artistic Director,
ECG & GPoN Aarhus 2025
Inga Marie Fabricius Rømer
Festival Coordinator &
Volunteer Manager
Cæcilie Uhre Karlsson
Project Coordinator
Emma Markvad Kyndesen
Production/Site Manager
Niels Østergaard
Production & Security
Ole Nielsen
Production, Musikhuset Aarhus
Frederikke Juhl Nielsen
Production, Musikhuset Aarhus
Rikke Myrwick
Event Manager
Kristian Thrane
Communication Manager –
Press and City dressing
Thomas Råhlin
Communication Manager –
Press and web
Emil Paustian
Graphic Designer
Steen Larsen-Ledet
Communication Manager –
Print
Maria Josephine Hansen
Communication Manager -
SoMe
Camilla Førby Pedersen
Communication Manager -
SoMe
Andrea Washuus Bundgaard
Project Manager
Karen Krabbe Ejlersen
Project Assistant
Nathalie la Cour Birkjær
Project Assistant
Birte Laursen
Volunteer Coordinator
Sjaja Haddadi
Parade Organizer
Anita Bøjesen
Economy
Jakob Petersen
Economy
National Advisory Board
Steen Lindholm, Carsten Seyer-Hansen, Helle Høyer, Charlotte Rowan,
Ole Faurschou, Niels Græsholm
Local Advisory Board
National and local choir organizations and conductors
18 NATIONAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Organizer
In association with
Musikhuset Aarhus Aarhus Events City of Aarhus Central Denmark
Region
Special thanks to our collaboration partners:
Dokk1 – Aarhus Libraries
Aarhus Jazz Orchestra
Visit Aarhus, ReThinkers
FO Aarhus
Skt. Lukas Kirke
Vor Frue Kirke
Aarhus Domkirke
Salling Rooftop
Djurslands Bank Arena
Tivoli Friheden
Langenæs Kirken
Supporting Foundations:
Supported by
a numerous national and international committees and organizations
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZING ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
COMMITTEE
19

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Günter Titsch
(Germany)
President of INTERKULTUR,
World Choir Council and
the European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations
Qin Wang
(China)
First Vice President of
INTERKULTUR &
World Choir Council
Stefan Bohländer
(Germany)
Vice President of
INTERKULTUR
Iris Huting Byrd
(China)
Project Director of the
6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus,
INTERKULTUR China &
World Choir Council
Hans-Robert Dapprich
(Germany)
Director Communication,
Marketing & Sales
INTERKULTUR
Zsuzsanna Lahmeyer
(Hungary/Germany)
Director Tourism of
INTERKULTUR
Jelena Dannhauer
(Germany)
Project Director of
INTERKULTUR
20

Artistic Organization
Kristina Eckern (Germany)
Yvonne Schönfeld (Germany)
Andrew Price Watson (USA)
Touristic Organization
Weihe Zhang (China)
Vivienne Matthäi (Germany)
Rossana Toesco (Italy)
Jury Secretaries
Janusz Kamiński (Latvia)
Kristian Grancharov (Bulgaria)
Sandra Voldina (Latvia)
Flannery Ryan (USA/Germany)
Venue Management
Kris Van Hullebusch (Belgium)
Siyi Chen (China)
Qiqian Huang (China)
Dmitry Lvovich (Germany)
Finn Westphal (Germany)
Sergejs Moldovans (Latvia)
Ieva Pētersone (Latvia)
Emil Bejstam (Sweden)
PR & Communications
Henriette Brockmann (Germany)
Qixuan Li (China)
Guofeng Zhang (China)
Uwe Degen (Germany)
Ralf Siepmann (Germany)
Francesca Szemere (Italy)
International Choral Networking
Ju He (China)
Xiaoyan Zhang (China)
Francesco Leonardi (Italy)
Benzel Villanueva Dapar (Philippines)
Joshibiah de Juan (Philippines)
Michael Joey Undag (Philippines)
Melissa Aldyne Viernes (Philippines)
Sangin Choi (Republic of Korea)
World Choir Council & Protocol
Anna Levina (Germany)
Joy Ran Tao (China)
Nicolas-Constantin Gliese (Germany)
Marc Moreno (Spain)
IT & Database
Sebastian Ferstl (Germany)
Chao Li (China)
Andreas Kirdjakin (Germany)
Alexandra Schmidt-Ullrich (Germany)
Registration & Information
Malomir St. Ingilizov (Bulgaria)
Administration
Frank Balkau (Germany)
Yan Li (China)
Regina Fritze (Germany)
Eva Heinz (Germany)
Graphic Design
Ina Hennig (Germany)
Film & Photo Documentation
Dagmar Titsch (Germany)
Yves Simard (New Zealand)
Jonas Persson (Sweden)
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
21

ARTISTIC COMMITTEE
Fred Sjöberg
Sweden
Senior Artistic Director of INTERKULTUR
• conductor of the Örebro Chamber Choir
• past Vice President of Europa Cantat
• former Vice President of IFCM
Artistic Director
of the 6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Vice President
of the World Choir Council
Maarten Van Ingelgem
Belgium
Artistic Director of INTERKULTUR
• Professor of Composition at LUCA School of Arts, Lemmens campus,
Leuven
• three-time laureate of the European Award for Choral Composers
• conductor of the Ghent-based chamber choir “De 2de Adem”
(“The Second Wind”) specializing in contemporary choral music
• local Artistic Director of the World Choir Games 2021 in Flanders, Belgium
and Artistic Director for World Choir Games 2023 Gangneung and
World Choir Games 2024 Auckland
Artistic Director
of the 6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Member of the World Choir Council
22

Prof. Dr. Ralf Eisenbeiß
Germany
Honorary Artistic President of INTERKULTUR
• one of the founders of the World Choir Games and World Choir
Championships
• co-founder and Artistic Director of many INTERKULTUR events since 1991
• Professor of Choral conducting and international adjudicator, conductor,
advisor and guest lecturer
Prof. Romāns Vanags
Latvia
Senior Artistic Director of INTERKULTUR
• Professor of choral conducting study program at the Jāzeps Vītols
Latvian Academy of Music since 1987
• Chief conductor and Artistic Director of “Jāzeps Mediņš Rīga 1st Music
School Boys‘ Choir” and principal conductor of the Latvian University
female choir named “Minjona” since 1990
• one of the Chief conductors of the Latvian Nationwide Song Celebration
(in 1993, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018)
• Chief Conductor and Artistic Director of the Latvian Nationwide Song
Celebration 2023
• recipient of the highest civil decoration in Latvia - “The Order of the
Three Stars” in 2008
Honorary Artistic President of
INTERKULTUR, World Choir Council
and INTERKULTUR events
Member of the World Choir Council
Johan Rooze
Netherlands
Senior Artistic Director of INTERKULTUR
• founder and conductor of the Daegu Jazz Singers in Daegu, South Korea
• conductor and teacher at Beomeo Cathedral in Daegu, South Korea
• conductor of the Daegu Chamber Choir
• international adjudicator, clinician, seminar and workshop leader
• former teacher of Jazz Piano and Choir at Yeongnam University in Daegu,
South-Korea
• former conductor and Artistic Director of student Vocal Jazz Group “Dekoor“
and the Student Symphonic Choir and Orchestra(USKO) of the University of
Utrecht, the Netherlands
• former teacher for Choral Conducting at the InHolland Conservatory of Music
in Alkmaar and Vocal Jazz groups at the Codarts Conservatory of Music in
Rotterdam (the Netherlands)
Member of the World Choir Council
ARTISTIC COMMITTEE
23

24

ABOUT
INTERKULTUR
25

... CONNECTING BRIDGES
More than 35 years of success: Since 1988
INTERKULTUR, founded by Günter Titsch, is the
world’s leading organizer of international choir
competitions and festivals. The event series has
meanwhile become known throughout the world
for its high artistic and organizational standards.
INTERKULTUR is a concept for choirs all over the
world and their excitement about its competitions
and festivals is constantly growing.
Since more than 35 years singers and choirs
from all over the world have been celebrating
international choral music with INTERKULTUR
in different cities and on different continents.
Whether the Palau de la Música in Barcelona
or the Konzerthaus Liebfrauen Wernigerode,
whether dream destinations in Europe or Asia;
wherever they go, participants will experience
a peaceful, world-spanning festival of singing
and intercultural choral music on a high artistic
level. Friendship Concerts and joint singing
events complete the great emotional impact of
INTERKULTUR’s international choral meetings.
INTERKULTUR unites nations. In 2004 and 2006 –
following long negotiations – the organization was
able to bring choirs from North and South Korea
together on stage. Also, choirs from countries
like Israel and Iran kept coming together at the
choir festivals and light a beacon of peace in
Friendship Concerts.
Participation is the highest honor.
INTERKULTUR´s biggest success to date was
to bring the antique Olympic idea to the choral
community. The Choir Olympics 2000 in Linz,
Austria was the beginning of a Choir Olympic
movement, which goes around the world until
today: Its story of success continues with
subsequent events in Busan, Republic of Korea
in 2002 and Bremen, Germany in 2004, and as
of 2006 under the name “World Choir Games” in
Xiamen, China; Graz, Austria in 2008; Shaoxing,
China in 2010; Cincinnati, USA in 2012; Riga,
Latvia in 2014 and the Winter Olympics City of
Sochi, Russia in 2016. The 10 th anniversary edition
of the World Choir Games in 2018 happened on
African soil for the first time: Tshwane in South
Africa attracted more than 300 choirs and more
than 16,000 participants in July 2018. Due to the
worldwide COVID-19 pandemic the 11 th edition
of the World Choir Games hosted by the cities
of Antwerp and Ghent in Belgium had to be
postponed from July 2020 to fall 2021. For the
first time in the event’s history these Games took
place as a hybrid event with live competitions in
Flanders and an additional Virtual Competitions
part. The 12 th edition of the event invited choirs
from around the world to Gangneung, Republic
of Korea in summer 2023. The 13 th World Choir
Games happened in Oceania for the first time:
Auckland in New Zealand welcomed 250 choirs
and groups in July 2024.
Since 2007 INTERKULTUR has been transferring
the idea of the World Choir Games also to different
continents: The Asia Pacific Choir Games took
place for the 4 th time already in October 2017, and
in 2025 the first African Asia Pacific Choir Games
will be held on the dream island Mauritius. In 2013
the European Choir Games premiered in Graz,
Austria. Subsequent editions of the event were
held in Magdeburg, Germany (2015), in Latvian
capital Riga (2017) and in the Swedish cities of
Gothenburg (2019) and Norrköping (2023), along
with the Grand Prix of Nations, which addresses
international top choirs. The sixth edition of the
European Choir Games will happen in Aarhus,
Denmark in the summer of 2025.
26

The Idea
INTERKULTUR has become the symbol for a
unique artistic idea: In comparison to traditional
meritorious choir competitions that only invite
international elite choirs to take part, the
INTERKULTUR competitions are open to all
non-professional choirs. Choirs from all over
the world, interested in gaining international
festival and competition experience, can compete
according to their level of artistic achievement.
INTERKULTUR has opened a door to new
impulses and perspectives for the national and
international choral movement.
The Competitions
There are various categories for all types and
levels of choirs in different degrees of difficulty,
with or without compulsory pieces. The
competitions offer good, competitive conditions,
valuable, artistic contacts, various workshops
and seminars, as well as practice opportunities
with international performers. More than 200
experts and leading choirmasters from all over
the world guarantee a high level of expertise in
all INTERKULTUR events.
Evaluation System
The jury awards Bronze, Silver, and Gold Diplomas
on 10 levels at INTERKULTUR competitions
according to the MUSICA MUNDI ® evaluation
system (30-points-system); and Bronze, Silver
and Gold Medals at the World Choir Games, the
Asia Pacific Choir Games, the European Choir
Games and the Grand Prix of Nations according
to the World Choir Games evaluation system
(100-points-system). In each category, a Winner
or Champion is determined and outstanding
achievements are honored with Special Prizes.
In some competitions there is a Grand Prize
Competition of the best choirs selected by the
international jury which determines the overall
winner of the competition.
The Pedagogical Concept
INTERKULTUR events are not only competitions
and international choir festivals, but also serve
as professional development such as providing
feedback from various pedagogical offerings.
In Evaluation Performances or Individual
Coachings, choirs have the chance to work with
international jury members and gain advice
on their current level of achievement, receive
proficient pedagogical and artistic information
and obtain suggestions as to how to interpret
the chosen piece. The MUSICA MUNDI ® Choir
Academy gives new impetus especially to young
choir conductors in China.
Every two years the World Choir Council
consisting of currently 148 members representing
96 countries and regions comes together during
the World Choir Games to discuss the choral
scenes in their respective home countries. These
meetings make an important contribution to the
development of the international choral scene.
Locations of Festivals and Competitions
To date, INTERKULTUR events have taken place
in Austria, Belgium, Cambodia, Croatia, Czech
Republic, France, Germany, Great Britain,
Greece, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan,
Latvia, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, New
Zealand, People’s Republic of China, South Africa,
Portugal, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Russia,
Serbia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Thailand, USA
and Vietnam. In 2025 INTERKULTUR will organize
its first-ever international choir competition in
Denmark and in 2026 the first international choir
competition will happen in Finland.
… CONNECTING BRIDGES
27

Many cities have been convinced of the success
of INTERKULTUR events and establish regular
choir festivals or apply repeatedly to host more
unifying major events.
The Participants
In total, more than 11,000 choirs with more than
460,000 active singers from 112 countries have
taken part in the INTERKULTUR competitions to
date. An interesting note is that more than half
of the participants have been children and youth
up to 27 years of age and 67% of the participating
choirs are returning ensembles looking forward
to new destinations and new choral challenges.
Many of them constantly increase their
achievements – from first little successes to a
Gold Medal or the sought-after Champions title.
Means of Support
In accordance with its statutes, INTERKULTUR
supports the following activities:
• International music festivals and choir
competitions whose goal is to bring together
choirs from different regions of the world and
encourage international collaboration through
mutual respect, as well as to contribute to
cultural exchange and understanding among
nations
• Children and youth choirs even from financially
challenged countries
• Non-professional choirs that focus on the
growth of youth development
• Young, talented choirmasters, young musicians
and singers through the support of scholarship
awards
• Specific sponsorship opportunities
INTERKULTUR World Rankings
TOP choirs, results and
updated statistics about our
festivals on our website
www.interkultur.com
28

THINK GLOBAL, ACT SOCIAL
@interkulturevents
@interkulturevents
/europeanchoirgames
/interkultur
@worldchoirgames
SHARE YOUR MOMENTS
#EUROPEANCHOIRGAMES
SCAN ME
… CONNECTING BRIDGES
29

30

WORLD
CHOIR
COUNCIL
31

GREETING
Dear singers, colleagues, and friends of choral music,
In a world yearning for connection, peace, and shared inspiration, the European Choir
Games & Grand Prix of Nations 2025 – taking place from June 28 to July 6, 2025, in
Aarhus, Denmark – will once again celebrate what unites us all: the love of music, the
joy of singing, and the profound strength of the human spirit.
As the Board of the World Choir Council, we are honored to welcome the global choral
community to this meaningful gathering in one of Scandinavia’s most vibrant cultural
centers. Known for its openness, creativity, and rich musical heritage, Aarhus offers
the perfect setting for unforgettable experiences, artistic excellence, and heartfelt
intercultural dialogue.
In times marked by global challenges, our shared mission as a worldwide choral family
is more vital than ever: to build bridges through music, to foster peace through song,
and to create spaces of beauty, hope, and understanding. This vision is what guides
the work of the World Choir Council – and what unites all of you who contribute to this
global movement.
At the heart of this event is a message that resonates more deeply than ever:
“Singing together brings nations together.”
This core belief of INTERKULTUR comes to life in Aarhus – a city that embodies
international spirit, community, and cultural richness. Here, voices from every corner
of the world will come together in unity through diversity, harmony through difference,
and peace through participation.
We look forward to exceptional performances, inspiring competitions, and personal
encounters filled with energy, creativity, and mutual respect. The European Choir
Games & Grand Prix of Nations 2025 are more than just a festival – they are a
celebration of what we can achieve when we raise our voices together.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Thank you for your voices, your passion, and
your unwavering belief in music’s power to build a better world.
See you in Aarhus – let your song be heard!
Warm regards,
Board of the World Choir Council
32

ADVISORY BOARD OF THE WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL
Senior Advisor
Prof. Lingfen Wu
(China)
Prof. Jürgen Budday
(Germany)
Dr. Maria Emma
Meligopoulou (Greece)
Susanna Saw
(Malaysia)
Dr. Michael Barrett
(South Africa)
Ana Laura Rey
(Uruguay)
Dr. Timothy W. Sharp
(USA)
REGIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL
Carrie Tennant
(Canada)
Prof. Tristan Meister
(Germany)
Julio Morales
(Mexico)
Dr. Ryan Goessl
(Republic of Korea/
USA)
Bernard Krüger
(South Africa)
WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL
33

CONNECTED WITH THE WORLD –
WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL MEMBERS AROUND THE GLOBE
21
6 CONTINENTS
96 COUNTRIES AND REGIONS
148 MEMBERS
10
ASIA/PACIFIC/MIDDLE EAST
NORTH, CENTRAL, SOUTH AMERICA
AFRICA/EUROPE
34

60
40
14
3
WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL
35

MEMBERS OF THE WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL
Board of the World Choir Council
President: Günter Titsch (Germany)
First Vice President: Qin Wang (China)
Vice Presidents:
Fred Sjöberg (Sweden)
Dr. Michael Barrett (South Africa)
Honorary Senior Advisor:
Steen Lindholm (Denmark)
Senior Advisor:
Prof. Jürgen Budday (Germany)
Advisory Board
Prof. Lingfen Wu (China)
Prof. Jürgen Budday (Germany)
Dr. Maria-Emma Meligopoulou (Greece)
Susanna Saw (Malaysia)
Dr. Michael Barrett (South Africa)
Dr. Timothy W. Sharp (USA)
Ana Laura Rey (Uruguay)
Regional Committee
Carrie Tennant (Canada)
Prof. Tristan Meister (Germany)
Julio Morales (Mexico)
Dr. Ryan Goessl
(Republic of Korea/USA)
Bernard Krüger (South Africa)
Afghanistan
Omid Noori
Albania
Prof. Suzana Turku
Argentina
Prof. Alejandro Daniel Garavano
Armenia
​Prof. Tigran Hekekyan
Australia
David Slater
Austria
Heinz Ferlesch
DDr. Karl-Gerhard Straßl MAS
Belarus
Inessa Bodyako
Belgium
Luc Anthonis
Jean-Pierre Van Avermaet
Maarten Van Ingelgem
Benin
Béranger Yakassou
Bolivia
Carmen Giovanna Montaño Valdivia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Prof. Mladen Matović
Botswana
David Slater
Brazil
Helma Haller
Bulgaria
Prof. Theodora Pavlovitch
Canada
Robert Cooper
Don James
Zimfira Poloz
Carrie Tennant
China
Guanghui Chen
Dapeng Meng
Prof. Xiaobao Tian
Prof. Lingfen Wu
Prof. Li Yang
China/Hong Kong SAR
Kay Yen Ronnie Cheng
Raymond Fu
China/Macao SAR
Mingyan Liu
Chinese Taipei
Yu-Chung Johnny Ku
Chile
Ricardo Curihuinca Vergara
Colombia
Edwin Orlando Carrillo
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
Carmen Acevedo Lucio
Costa Rica
Beverlyn Mora Ramírez
Cote d‘Ivoire
Pascal Koua
Croatia
Antoaneta Radočaj-Jerković
Branko Stark
Cuba
María Felicia Pérez
Czech Republic
Jan Míšek
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Ambroise Kua-Nzambi Toko
Denmark
Steen Lindholm
Dominican Republic
Farida Diná
Elioenai Medina
Ecuador
Manuel Eugenio Auz Sanchez
Estonia
Aarne Saluveer
Finland
Kari Turunen
France
Jean Baptiste Bertrand
Mariette Wilson
Germany
Prof. Jürgen Budday
Jürgen Faßbender
Dr. Thomas Kreiling
Tristan Meister
Donka Miteva
Axel Pfeiffer
Gibraltar
Christian Santos
Great Britain
Joy Hill
Rachel Walker Mason
Mathew Wright
Greece
Dr. Maria-Emma Meligopoulou
Guatemala
Carlos Fernando Archila Salguero
36

Hungary
Levente Gyöngyösi
Katalin Kiss
Iceland
Thorgerdur Ingólfsdottir
Indonesia
Sonia Nadja Simanjuntak
Aris Sudibyo
Iran
Milad Omranloo
Ireland
Michael Dawson
Bernie Sherlock
Israel
Aharon Harlap
Nathalie Goldberg
Italy
Prof. Giovanni Acciai
Cinzia Zanon
Jamaica
Gregory Simms
Japan
Ko Matsushita
Kenji Otani
Jordan
Shireen Abu-Khader
Kazakhstan
Gulmira Kuttybadamova
Kosovo
Memli Kelmendi
Latvia
Mārtiņš Klišāns
Prof. Romāns Vanags
Lithuania
Prof. Vytautas Miškinis
Malaysia
Susanna Saw
Malta
John Galea
Christopher Muscat
Mexico
Julio Morales
Gerardo Rábago Palafox
Marco Antonio Ugalde
Morocco
Adnane Matrone
Myanmar
Moe Naing
Namibia
Fanie Dorfling
Netherlands
Johan Rooze
Hans van den Brand
New Zealand
Karen L. Grylls
John Rosser
Nicaragua
Reyna Somarriba Molina
Nigeria
Emeka Nwokedi
North Macedonia
Letka Dimovska Polizova
Norway
Tove Ramlo-Ystad
Panama
Jorge Ledezma Bradley
Paraguay
Maria Vanesa Utz
Peru
Jaime Augusto Contreras Ghio
Philippines
Jonathan Velasco
Poland
Benedykt Błoński
Kinga Litowska
Portugal
Luis Cipriano
Qatar
Zlatan Fazlić
Republic of Korea
Prof. Dr. Shin-Hwa Park
Romania
Prof. Voicu Popescu
Anna Ungureanu
Russia
Prof. Lev Kontorovich
Pavel Pozhigailo
Prof. Alexander Solovyev
Prof. Viktor Zakharchenko
Prof. Vladimir Zhivov
Senegal
Lucien Mendy
Serbia
Vladimir Opačić
Singapore
Jennifer Tham
Slovakia
Milan Kolena
Slovenia
Karmina Šilec
South Africa
Dr. Michael Barrett
Bernard Krüger
Ludumo Magangane
André van der Merwe
Spain
Enrique Azurza
Òscar Boada
Sri Lanka
Soundarie David
Sweden
Fred Sjöberg
Helene Stureborg
Switzerland
Ivo Antognini
Hansruedi Kämpfen
Thailand
Khunying Malaival Boonyaratavej
Togo
Felix Adessondji Olufade
Türkiye
Başak Doğan
Ilker Ersil
Uganda
Michael Eduard Mukisa
Ukraine
Anzhela Maslennikova
United Arab Emirates
Philipp Maier
Uruguay
Ana Laura Rey
USA/ Republic of Korea
Dr. Ryan Goessl
USA
John Haberlen
Dr. T.J. Harper
Prof. André de Quadros
Elena Sharkova
Dr. Timothy W. Sharp
Venezuela
Maria Guinand
Vietnam
Chau Ahn Dang
WORLD CHOIR COUNCIL
37

38

6 TH EUROPEAN
CHOIR GAMES
AND
GRAND PRIX
OF NATIONS
AARHUS 2025
39

EUROPEAN CHOIR GAMES AND
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
IDEA & CONCEPT
For more than 30 years, INTERKULTUR has
been fostering understanding and friendship
among people from different nations, religions
or denominations through peaceful musical
festivals, with its innovative concept of choral
competitions. The INTERKULTUR concept
gives all choirs the opportunity to take part in
international competitions – regardless of their
personal level of artistic achievement or musical
genre – and to benefit from the experience of
internationally renowned choral experts and get
advice for their artistic development.
The European Choir Games is the continental
version of the World Choir Games – also known
as “Choir Olympics” – in Europe. Following the
premier in Graz (Austria) 2013, a continued series
in Magdeburg (Germany 2015), Riga (Latvia 2017)
and Gothenburg (Sweden 2019), and lastly in
Norrköping (Sweden) this major choral event
comes to Aarhus (Denmark) this summer.
The core of the European Choir Games is the
European Champions Competition, which has
been designed for experienced choirs from
Europe. They have the chance to become winners
of the title “Champion of the European Choir
Games” in ten different categories.
According to its philosophy, INTERKULTUR’s
events are open for every amateur choir in the
world, thus next to the European Champions
Competition there are two other competitions
designed for choirs of all levels and from all over
the world.
The Open Competition is for amateur choirs
from all countries with little to no competition
experience.
The Grand Prix of Nations has been designed
for top-class choirs from all over the world
with international competition experience that
have already proven their outstanding skills in
concerts and international choir competitions.
Choirs have the chance to qualify directly for the
Grand Prix of Nations from both Open Competition
and European Champions Competition.
Along with the competitions, INTERKULTUR offers
educational activities – Evaluation Performances,
workshops and Individual Coachings with
international choral experts – which already have
a long tradition outside Europe and are extremely
popular among overseas choirs.
CATEGORIES
OPEN COMPETITION
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS COMPETITION
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
1 Children’s Choirs
2 Youth Choirs (Mixed and Equal Voices)
3 Chamber Choirs/Vocal Ensembles
4 Adult Choirs (Mixed, Male, Female Choirs)
5 Musica Sacra a cappella
6 Musica Sacra with accompaniment
7 Gospel, Spiritual, Music of Spirit and Faith
8 Jazz, Pop, Show
9 Folklore a cappella
10 Folklore with accompaniment
40

GREETING
Whether you are an experienced choir singer or simply enjoy singing in the
shower, we warmly welcome you into a heartfelt community of song.
Collaboration is at the heart of this event, and we are immensely proud
that this festival is both created and shaped by the people and choirs of
Aarhus, working in unison to welcome you. We embrace diversity, equality,
inclusion, and genre-crossing musical expressions, all while prioritizing
sustainability. This festival is not just about music – it is about building a
community rooted in openness, creativity, and the uniquely Danish informal
warmth that invites everyone to take part.
We consider Aarhus to have a unique energy when it comes to choral singing
– a city with an exceptionally high density of singers at all levels, where
innovation, collaboration, and educational opportunities thrive.
We are honored to welcome you all into our singing community during
these weeks.
With the words of our inspirational Festival Song, The Infinite Bridge, written
by the beloved singer-songwriter duo Tina Dickow and Helgi Jónsson,
you are: “the waves” that hit “The Infinite Bridge” and reassure us that
despite all external challenges, “we’re not made of stone, we’re loved for
no reason, we’re not alone.”
Jeppe Uggerhøj
Artistic Director
Musikhuset Aarhus
Jeppe Uggerhøj
Artistic Director, Musikhuset Aarhus
Lene Juul Langballe
National Artistic Director &
Project Manager,
6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Lene Juul Langballe
National Artistic Director &
Project Manager
6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
EUROPEAN CHOIR GAMES AND GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
41

WELCOME TO AARHUS
THE WORLD’S SMALLEST METROPOLIS
Dating back to the late 8 th century, Aarhus was
founded as a harbor settlement at the mouth of
the Aarhus River and quickly became a trade
hub.
In Aarhus, everything is close by and easily
accessible - often within walking distance. The
city offers a touch of the big city pulse, but without
losing the warm and welcoming atmosphere that
makes Aarhus unique. Here you’ll find smiles
and friendliness that reflect the city’s loving
nickname, the City of Smiles.
Today, Aarhus is a young, vibrant university city
in the center of a modern, active and creative
region. Whether you like exciting attractions,
modern architecture, delicious gastronomy,
shopping, cosy events or fun and action, there is
something for everyone.
42

A CITY FULL OF ART AND ARCHITECTURE
In Aarhus you will find impressive art and
architecture both inside and out. Admire iconic
buildings such as Aarhus City Hall and the great
works of Hack Kampmann, or experience classic
Danish architecture at Aarhus University. The
characteristic yellow brick buildings with lush
facades covered in ivy are a sight you won’t want
to miss.
The art museum ARoS is a must-see in Aarhus,
whether you love art and architecture or are
just looking for a unique experience. From the
outside, the maroon building impresses with
Olafur Eliasson’s iconic work Your rainbow
panorama - the colorful rainbow roof that
provides a spectacular view of the city.
The university is one of the twelve most
meaningful architectural works in Danish history
according to the Danish Ministry of Culture.
The small streets at the heart of the city
intertwines and reveals Aarhus’ age. The old Latin
Quarter surrounds Store Torv and Bispetorv
where you will find Aarhus Cathedral, which was
built between 1190 and 1300. The tower with its
96 meters is one of the tallest in Denmark and
the church, which is the main church in Aarhus
Parish, is absolutely worth a visit.
The cathedral is at the end of Strøget, a pedestrian
area with small independent boutiques and shops
as well as international chains where you can find
everything from clothes and shoes to homeware
and leisure. The department store Salling on
Søndergade houses Salling ROOFTOP.
And not far from the center of Aarhus is Aarhus
Ø - a brand-new district that has sprung up in
the city in recent years. Here you can experience
modern Aarhus with architectural high-rise
buildings, including the iconic Isbjerget and
Lighthouse, Denmark’s tallest building.
Aarhus is a colourful art city where you can
experience amazing murals and street art in areas
such as the Latin Quarter and Godsbanen. The
city also offers small, independent galleries and
Kunsthal Aarhus, which presents contemporary
art from both Denmark and abroad.
WELCOME TO AARHUS
43

A CITY WHERE NATURE IS CLOSE BY
In Aarhus, nature is always just around the
corner with forest and beach in and around
the city. Whether you seek peace and quiet in
open parks or want to explore the area’s scenic
surroundings, Aarhus is the perfect place for a
break in the great outdoors.
Northeast of the city center is the Forest Riis
Skov, a tranquil oasis with views of Aarhus Bay
and easy access to Den Permanente - a cosy
beach area close to the city.
South of the city center, the forest Marselisborg
Skovene and Marselisborg Memorial Park
enchant all year round. See the cherry trees in
bloom in spring or the warm autumn colors later
in the year. In high season you can also take a
walk on Den Uendelige Bro – The Infinite Bridge
- an iconic work of art and bathing jetty on the
coast.
Fun fact: The Infinite Bridge serves as the
inspiration for both the Official Song and for
the medals awarded during the European Choir
Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025.
44

EAT AND DRINK
The gastronomic standards in Aarhus are high,
and the city’s creative gourmet chefs never
compromise on quality. Four Michelin stars put
Aarhus in the prestigious company of the world’s
gastronomic elite.
The Nordic Kitchen offers newly caught fish
from the Aarhus Bay landed at the harbor,
local delicacies, vegetables from the island of
Samsø, and fresh produce from the neighbouring
Djursland peninsula.
SHOPPING
The main pedestrian high street, different
city quarters each with their own vibe, a city
shopping mall and department stores filled
with Danish fashion and design - all are within
easy walking distance. The fashionable visitor
will enjoy browsing the area around the Latin
Quarter where you will find designer boutiques
on cobblestone streets. Looking for local design,
handmade ceramics and jewellery? The area
around trendy Frederiksbjerg is definitely worth
a visit.
Go to https://www.visitaarhus.com/ for more inspiration.
WELCOME TO AARHUS
45

SINGING TOGETHER -
THE DANISH CHORAL TRADITION
Denmark is a nation of singers, where community
and participation are deeply rooted in cultural life.
From a young age, many Danes are introduced to
singing through communal gatherings in schools,
churches, and social events. This tradition is
especially strong in Denmark’s “Højskoler”
(folk high schools) and “Efterskoler” (boarding
schools), where singing together is a cherished
part of daily life.
Denmark has also fostered renowned composers
such as Carl Nielsen, Per Nørgård, and Bo
Holten, among many others whose works remain
cornerstones of Danish choral music.
We are proud to welcome you to Aarhus for
the European Choir Games, and we hope this
glimpse into our choral tradition inspires you to
keep singing – and to visit Denmark again soon.
A unique Danish singing tradition is the
“lejlighedssang” - a custom of writing and
performing personalized songs for special
occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and
anniversaries. These songs, often written to wellknown
melodies, include humorous or heartfelt
lyrics celebrating the guest of honor and bring
people together, creating a warm and inclusive
atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to
sing along.
With approximately 1,000 choirs and 150,000
active singers, Denmark’s choral scene is both
vibrant and diverse. Many choirs are rooted in
Denmark’s strong association culture — a unique
tradition in which people join local groups to
pursue shared interests such as sports, arts, and
music.
The Church also plays a key role in Danish choral
life. As the Church of Denmark is state-supported,
churches serve as central venues for both choir
rehearsals and concerts. Organizations such as
Sangens Hus, Kor72, Syng, and Korliv support
choirs by providing networks, educational
opportunities, and artistic inspiration.
- Jonas Rasmussen -
46

EUROPEAN STREET FESTIVAL, JULY 3, 2025
Denmark is celebrating the handover of the Presidency of the European Union on July 3 in Aarhus.
The City of Aarhus is organizing a festive day in the central part of Aarhus from 16h00-22h00. The
event takes place in the park at The City Hall and Musikhuset.
The event will showcase a wide variety of Aarhus and Denmark’s cultural scene and international
outreach. The program is a mix of music, talks, performances, urban sport, culture for children and
food and drinks.
Included in the program will be performances from choirs participating in the European Choir Games
& Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025, accompanied by the Aarhus Jazz Orchestra.
It will be a relaxed atmosphere with short formats where guests can go to and from the performances
and enjoy a cultural afternoon and evening.
WELCOME TO AARHUS
47

THE AARHUS STAGE
SING WITH AARHUS – MORNING AND EVENING SINGING
In Denmark, singing together is a beloved tradition. At the European Choir Games Aarhus 2025, join
us for morning and evening singing sessions led by Danish hosts. Enjoy cherished Danish songs and
global melodies – all shared in a spirit of community. Come sing with us and be part of the harmony
that fills the city.
MORNING SINGING
Dokk1 - The View:
June 29/June 30/July 1/July 4/July 5/July 6, 2025
10h00-10h30
EVENING SINGING
Musikhusparken:
June 29/June 30/July 4/July 5, 2025
19h00-19h20
SING FOR PEACE
with Sangkraft Randers v. Kristian Melchior
Aarhus Katedralskoles Aula:
July 4, 2025 14h00-14h30
with Sangkraft Randers v. Kristian Melchior
Dokk1:
July 4, 2025 17h00-17h30
THE AARHUS STAGE - EXPERIENCE AARHUS’ OWN CHOIRS AND VOCAL GROUPS
Join us in front of the Aarhus Stage at Bispetorv and experience a wide selection of Aarhus
choirs on their home turf.
On Wednesday July 2, 2025 you can experience:
16h30: SØNK
17h00: Naura
17h30: Vokalgruppen Soundaround
18h00: De Syngende Sygeplejersker
18h30: Kasernekoret
On Thursday July 3, 2025, you can experience
the classical women’s choir Vox Mariæ
and the barbershop women’s choir Wondaros:
12h30: Vox Mariæ
13h00: Wondaros
The Aarhus Stage is made possible with support from Salling Fondene and Kirsten og Gunnar Fonden
THE CHORAL COMPOSER BATTLE
Join a fun choir competition with fellow choral
enthusiasts! 16 composers face off in one-minute
musical duels – you decide who wins!
Musikhuset Aarhus, Caféscenen:
July 2, 2025 – 14h00
48

RETHINKERS -
THE AARHUS VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION
The ReThinker Volunteer Program was created in
the years leading up to Aarhus as the European
Capital of Culture in 2017 and is now driven
by VisitAarhus. The vision is to continue the
development of this diverse, dedicated group
of volunteers, which helps support the city’s
blossoming cultural and business sectors and
makes a positive impact on anyone in Aarhus
including visitors and residents alike. The
success of the volunteer program is founded
on a strong sense of identity, community and
affiliation, and the ReThinker volunteers have
a huge impact on the city with their level of
hospitality and welcoming attitude. Whether you
come to Aarhus on a cruise ship, participate in
conferences and festivals or are just visiting the
city, there is a good chance that you will meet a
ReThinker. They are easy to spot - look out for the
orange jackets, large “Ask me!” buttons and, of
course, a big smile!
WELCOME TO AARHUS
49

PARTICIPATING
COUNTRIES AND REGIONS
Australia
Czech
Republic
Italy
Austria
Denmark
Kosovo
Belgium
Faroe Islands
Latvia
Bulgaria
Finland
Lithuania
Canada
France
Malaysia
China
Georgia
Mexico
China/Hong
Kong SAR
Germany
Netherlands
Chinese Taipei
Greece
New Zealand
Costa Rica
Hungary
Norway
Croatia
Indonesia
Romania
50

Singapore
Slovakia
South Africa
Sing
from Kobe
Sweden
Switzerland
Int. Choir Festival & Competition
January 15-19, 2026 | Kobe, Japan
Türkiye
United
Arab Emirates
USA
Venezuela
interkultur.com/Kobe2026
51

ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
Prof. Giovanni Acciai
Italy
Member of the World Choir Council
• graduated in organ, composition and choir conducting and specialized in
Paleography and musical philology
• former Director of the RAI Chamber Choir of Rome and recognized as one of the
greatest interpreters of the Renaissance and Baroque vocal repertoire
• Professor of Musical Palaeography at the “Giuseppe Verdi” Conservatory in
Milan
• in 2015 invited as individual member in the Réseau Européen de Musique
Ancienne (R.E.M.A.)
• carries out an intense concert and recording activity at the helm of the
Collegium vocale et instrumentale Nova Ars Cantandi
• since December 2004 official representative for Italy of the World Choir Council
Luc Anthonis
Belgium
• choral and orchestral conductor,professor of choral conducting in Antwerp
(Belgium)
• frequently invited as a guest conductor, adjudicator, workshop leader and
lecturer of choral music in Europe, Asia and Africa
• founded and Artistic Director of the Chamber Choir Cantando, a choir with
varied repertoire from all centuries but specializes mainly in contemporary
music
• worked with the Flemish Radio Choir and was Artistic Director of the Youth
Choir Cantilene for 44 years (1980 – 2024)
Member of the World Choir Council
52

Dr. Michael Barrett
South Africa
• active composer, arranger, clinician and workshop presenter, having been invited
all over the world to lecture, conduct performances and adjudicate festival
• Director of Choral Activities and Conductor of the University of Pretoria (TUKS)
Camerata from 2013-2025
• presented and performed with his choirs at conferences and symposiums across
the globe, including being invited as the Headline Choir of the National Conference
of the American Choral Directors Association (Dallas 2025) and the World Choral
Symposium (Barcelona 2017)
• co-founder and producer of Capital Singers, South Africa’s largest community choir
• in April 2026 he will make his Carnegie Hall debut
Vice President
of the World Choir Council
Prof. Jürgen Budday
Germany
• founder and Artistic Director of the chamber choir Maulbronner Kammerchor and the
Kantorei Maulbronn until 2016 and from 1979 until 2013 Artistic Director of the festival
“Klosterkonzerte Maulbronn”
• recorded more than 20 CDs with the Maulbronner Kammerchor, including 10 oratorios
by G.F. Händel, which were awarded the Georg-Friedrich-Händel-Ring 2013
• chair of the advisory board of the German Music Council and Artistic Leader and
Chairman of the jury of the Deutscher Chorwettbewerb (2002-2019)
• since 2014 Artistic Director of the Internationaler Kammerchor-Wettbewerb
Marktoberdorf
• chair of the advisory board of the Bundesjugendchor of Germany, recently founded by
the German Music Council
• Advisory Board Member of the INTERKULTUR World Choir Council
Senior Advisor
of the World Choir Council
Christo Burger
South Africa
• South African music entrepreneur and conductor
• his internationally acclaimed choir, the Akustika Chamber Singers has won
numerous international awards, establishing itself as one of South Africa’s
leading choirs
• founder and conductor of the Capital Singers, the largest community choir in
South Africa
• selected for orchestral conducting masterclasses at the Royal College of Music
in London, UK, and for choral conducting masterclasses at the Juilliard School of
Music in New York, USA
• regularly serves as an adjudicator at festivals and competitions around the world
ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
53

Margrethe Debel Christensen
Denmark
• Conductor, arranger, and composer for both choirs and big bands, and a soughtafter
guest conductor and choral workshops across Denmark
• Founder and musical director of the contemporary choir Airo since 2018, and
artistic co-conductor of the improvisational vocal group Aarhus Vocal Painters.
• Holds a Master’s degree in Innovative Choir Leading from the Royal Academy
of Music, and teaches choral conducting and the improvisational method Vocal
Painting.
• Head judge and honorary guest conductor at the Faroe Islands’ national choir
competition Kórstevna 2025.
Başak Doğan
Türkiye
Member of the World Choir Council
• innovative conductor whose unique style has been turning heads around the
world
• after finishing master in Philosophy of Music at Bogazici University in Istanbul,
got second master’s degree in Rhythmic Choral Conducting at the Royal
Academy of Music, Denmark
• appears at numerous choral events, leading singers from all age groups
• won prizes and international recognition with her choir Chromas
• her new initiative “Vokal Akademi” has become the center for all the singers
who want to master their singing and further their music career
• member of the World Choir Council and served as a jury member at the 2023
World Choir Games in South Korea
• Artistic Director and founder of “VoiceUp A Cappella Festival”, in Istanbul
Christian Fris-Ronsfeld
Denmark
• Artistic Director of the Danish girls’ choir Mariagerfjord Pigekor at Mariagerfjord
Kulturskole, which is one of the most remarkable schools for
contemporary vocal music in Europe
• has been conducting the Danish award-winning choirs Syng Selected and Naura
and is the conductor of the female choir ignis
• frequently invited as a conductor, workshop instructor and jury member by
festivals, competitions and choir events in Europe and USA
• his choir arrangements are sung by groups all over Europe and published by
Schott and Helbling edition
• Board member of Aarhus Vocal Festival (AAVF)
54

Tine Fris-Ronsfeld
Denmark
• professional singer, composer, arranger and choir director based in Denmark
• Co-Director of Vocal Line and founding member and singer of Postyr, toured
Europe, Asia, the US and Brazil
• former Director of Lyt and the Danish National Youth Choir, Syng Selected
• known internationally as a passionate singer, conductor and educator and for
her innovative choral arrangements and catchy compositions
• head of Aarhus Vocal Festival, member of the Contemporary A Cappella Society
of America’s Advisory Board, member of the Music Commission of Leading Voices
Festival and the European Choral Association think tank “SingTank”
• furthermore, has served as a member of the jury in numerous competitions
Prof. María Guinand
Venezuela
• choral and orchestral conductor, college professor and leader of national and
international choral projects, has specialized in Latin American Choral Music of the
20 th and 21 st centuries
• frequently invited as a guest conductor, adjudicator, jury member, and lecturer of
choral music all over the world
• Artistic Director of the Fundación Schola Cantorum de Venezuela
• associated with the Universidad Simón Bolívar and El Sistema (Venezuela), Vice
President of the International Federation for Choral Music
• has been awarded “Robert Edler Preis für Chormusik”, the Helmuth Rilling Prize,
the Life Achievement Award by the International Federation for Choral Music
(IFCM), and the Honorary Doctorate of the Metropolitan University, Caracas,
Venezuela
Member of the World Choir Council
Sabine Haenebalcke
Belgium
• choral and orchestral director, honorary piano professor
• singer for many years, among others of Philippe Herreweghe’s Collegium Vocale
• in 1997 invited to be the first female conductor of the Flanders Symphony Orchestra
• conducted most of the major oratorios and various works by Flemish contemporary
composers
• resident conductor of the chamber choirs Kalliope Ghent and Toon op Toon Ronse
and of the oratorium choir Altra Voce Kortrijk
• highly sought after as choir coach
ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
55

Prof. Jim Daus Hjernøe
Denmark
• distinguished figure in music and education, is a full professor at the Royal
Academy of Music in Denmark (RAMA)
• as a leader at the RAMA Vocal Center, he has globally transformed vocal music,
particularly in Jazz/Pop Choir Directing, impacting teachers, students, and
collaborators worldwide
• since 2002, devoted himself to improvisational vocal art, pioneering the Vocal
Painting (VOPA) technique within The Intelligent Choir (TIC) teaching concept
• with a philosophy centered on empowering vocal leaders and fostering shared
initiative, aims to create transformative musical experiences
Helle Høyer
Denmark
• two Master´s degrees from the Royal Academy of Music, Aarhus
• choir master and teacher at the Aarhus Music School through four decades, working
with children’s, youth, girls and mixed choirs
• founder and former conductor of Aarhus Girls Choir
• collaboration with many Danish composers and musicians, Aarhus Symphony
Orchestra, Danish National Opera and the Dutch choireographer Panda van Proosdij
• participation in several local and national choir councils, lecturer in the conducting
of children’s choir at the Royal Academy of Music as well as at different courses
• since 2016 conductor of the Vocal Ensemble Korvida, a group of young female
singers
• international juror
Jēkabs Jančevskis
Latvia
• composer and conductor, started to create music at the age of 14 and since then
has become one of the most sought-after Latvian composers of his generation
• in 2019, won the grand prize in the International Competition for composers
ROSTRUM
• collaborated several times with the most significant Latvian choirs
• in 2023 his compositions were performed in many concerts of the XXVII
Nationwide Song Festival in Latvia, including 5 premieres
• conductor in mixed choir Anima and one of the best-known amateur choirs in
Latvia, Sōla
56

Dr. Katalin Kiss
Hungary
• had been lecturing at the Kodály Institute of Liszt Academy of Music, served as
Deputy Director-General in 2002-04
• guest lecturer in the US and conductor at the Kodály Center of America in Boston
• appointed as a university teacher at the Beijing Central Conservatory of Music in
2015-2016
• founder of both the Ars Nova Vocal Ensemble in 1990 and Ars Nova Editio Music
Publishing House
• serves as jury for international choir competitions, representative of Hungary in the
World Choir Council
• founding member and continental ambassador of Europe of the International Choral
Conductors’ Federation
Member of the World Choir Council
Steen Lindholm
Denmark
• choral and orchestral conductor
• former choirmaster at The Royal Danish Opera
• former Artistic Director of the Copenhagen Concert Society and
The Danish Boys Choir
• international adjudicator, conductor and guest lecturer
• jury member at ten editions of the World Choir Games
Honorary Senior Advisor
of the World Choir Council
RoxorLoops
Belgium
• Belgian and Vice World Champion Beatbox, and Soloist postgraduate at the Royal
Academy Of Music in Aalborg (Denmark)
• juror in 4 World Beatbox Championships and over 30 national Beatbox
Championships
• winner of “Blue Note Award” and the “BeatBox Special Award”
• teacher of over 800 workshops and lessons (Stanford University, London A Cappella
Festival, RAMA, Europa Cantat, World Beatbox Camp…)
• vocal percussionist for Zap Mama, Witloof Bay (Eurosong 2011), Bruk Braders, WAM
and Vox North
• guest performances with Bobby McFerrin, The Real Group, Swingle Singers, Voces8
ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
57

Dr. Maria-Emma Meligopoulou
Greece
• Assistant Professor of Choral Conducting in Macedonia University School of
Music Science & Art Choirs, Thessaloniki, Director of University Choirs
• founding & Artistic Director of the Ss. Cyril & Methodios Choral Organization,
renowned for its many international distinctions and regular collaborations with
Thessaloniki State Orchestra and Opera productions
• Artistic Director of the Thessaloniki Concert Hall Children & Youth Choirs’
Festival
• Artistic Director of the Tassos Pappas International choir Competition
• international adjudicator, clinician and lecturer on demand
• author of choral text books, choral score editions and Academic Publications
Advisory Board Member
of the World Choir Council
Prof. Vytautas Miškinis
Lithuania
• Artistic Director of the Ąžuoliukas Boys’ and Men’s Choir, Professor at the
Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theater, President of the Lithuanian Choral Union
• Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the all Lithuanian Choir Festival and has led
the choral performances of this choir in 25 different countries
• conducted workshops in several Europa Cantat Festivals, World Choral
Symposiums, World Choir Games, member of World Choir Council
• composed approximately 400 religious motets a cappella, 18 Masses, Magnificat,
St. John Passion, 4 Cantatas, 2 Musicals with orchestras and about 400 secular
songs
Member of the World Choir Council
Mariette Morel Wilson
France
Member of the World Choir Council
• studied musicology, voice and choral conducting in France, before spending
three years and obtained a Master’s degree at the University of South Florida in
the United States
• returned to France and has been conducting a variety of choirs and continued
deepening her understanding of vocal technique and vocal pedagogy
• founded “Les Chantiers Musicaux”, with her personal approach, combines
American experience of a greater self-confidence, and practice of yoga and
breathing techniques, that allow choirs to address emotions in singing
• in March 2025, organized along with “Les Chantiers Musicaux” the first edition
of the S(pr)ING festival, whose profits were donated to the Stop Ecocide
Foundation
58

Jasmin Rose Patel
Great Britain/Denmark
• singer, songwriter and choir conductor and part of the vocal duo RoxorLoops &
Jasmin
• known from Danish X-Factor and Danish Eurovision
• holds both a Master’s and Soloist degree in singing and choir conducting from
The Royal Academy of Music in Denmark
• trained at the London School of Musical Theatre (Full-Time Diploma)
• member of the jury at the European Choir Games 2023 in Sweden; performed as
a soloist at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies
• Denmark’s first female beatbox champion
Axel Pfeiffer
Germany
• conductor of numerous choirs, with whom he has won many first prizes at
national and international choir competitions
• founded the semi-professional ensemble vox luminum
• organizational director, conductor and musical director of the Landesjugendchor
Hessen and chairman of the Federal Music Committee of the Hessian Singers’
Association
• taught composition, choral voice training and rehearsal at the Frankfurt Choir
Conducting School and, as head of the Marburg Choir Conducting School of the
Hessian Singers’ Association
• leader of seminars and further training events and regularly active as a juror at
national and international choir competitions
Member of the World Choir Council
Tove Ramlo-Ystad
Norway
• educated singer and conductor with a Master Degree from the Norwegian
University of Science and Technology, Trondheim
• one of Norway’s most acknowledged choir conductors, popular and inspiring
guest conductor, and is frequently invited as an adjudicator in international choir
competitions
• representing Norway in the World Choir Council and since 2015 has been the
Artistic Director of The Norwegian National Championship for Choirs
• conducted both mixed and male choirs through the years, and has kept conducting
the female choir Cantus since their beginning in 1986
• music director for the Norwegian Choral Association
Member of the World Choir Council
ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
59

Line Groth Riis
Denmark
• teacher of Choral Conducting and arranging at The Royal Academy of Music
(DK) and at Codarts University of the Arts (NL)
• conductor of the mass choir Syng Syng Syng in Musikhuset, Aarhus that gathers
1,300 people for each choir event
• teaching over 1,000 workshops and coaching sessions all over the world
• singer, arranger and co-conductor in the world-famous Danish choir Vocal Line
and performing with The Rolling Stones and Bobby McFerrin among others
• conducting NABLA which is widely recognized on the Danish a cappella scene
and has performed in Danish national television
• conductor of the elite youth choir Syng Selected together with Morten Vinther
Kicki Rosén Bejstam
Sweden
• Artistic Director of Brunnsbo Music Classes in Gothenburg, Sweden since 2013
• Director of Brunnsbo Music Classes Girl’s Choir, which represented Gothenburg
in European Choir Games in Riga 2017
• holds an MFA in Music Education from the Örebro University as well as a
Master’s degree in choral conducting from the Academy of Music and Drama in
Gothenburg
• member of Vocal Art Ensemble of Sweden
• former President of the youth choral association UNGiKÖR Väst, and a Swedish
representative of INTERKULTUR
• part of the Artistic Committee for European Choir Games, Gothenburg 2019
• conductor of Voices of Gothia, a newly formed choir of young adult singers that
perform at the highest artistic level
John Rosser CNZM
New Zealand
• founder and musical director of Viva Voce Chamber Choir (1985-today)
• chorus director and associate conductor – New Zealand Opera (1996-2018)
• frequent guest conductor, choral clinician, broadcaster and adjudicator
• inaugural Chair and Life Member – NZ Choral Federation
• past National Director – “Sing Aotearoa” and “The Big Sing” festivals
• Artistic Director – World Symposium on Choral Music 2020; Board Member –
IFCM
• Artistic & Games Director – World Choir Games 2024, Auckland NZ
• Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) for services to choral
music
Member of the World Choir Council
60

Anne-Terese Sales
Denmark
• Danish choral conductor based in Copenhagen
• worked with both children and adult choirs for more than 15 years and
combines pedagogical elements from aural training with a playful and
encouraging style in her choral practice
• conductor of Copenhagen Girls Choir, and started off by winning several prizes
with the choir in Barcelona in October 2022 and in Magdeburg in September
2024 at the INTERKULTUR international choir competitions
• leader of the Vocal Ensemble Vigdis, a newly founded group of 30 young women
with great ambitions and beautiful voices
• lead the Copenhagen Girls Choir in the international competition “Let The
Peoples Sing” to win the prestigious Silver Rose Bowl
Carsten Seyer-Hansen
Denmark
• became the cantor of the Copenhagen Cathedral in 2020 and Artistic Director of
Copenhagen Boys Choir – Copenhagen Royal Chapel Choir following 25 years as
a central figure in the music and choir life of Aarhus, Denmark
• teaches choral conducting at the Royal Academy of Music, Aarhus, and is also
the Artistic Director of the award-winning vocal group Concert Clemens
• frequent guest conductor of the Danish National Radio Vocal Ensemble
• latest album “Song & Wind” with music composed by Jakob Buchanan and
performed by Copenhagen Boys Choir and the Aarhus Jazz Orchestra
Deke Sharon
USA
• known as the “Father of Contemporary A Cappella” (Entertainment Weekly) for
having created and popularized the modern sound including vocal percussion
• music director, arranger and producer for all 3 Pitch Perfect Films
• vocal producer and music director of “The Sing Off” (US, South Africa, China,
Netherlands)
• arranged over 2,000 a cappella arrangements and written 7 books on vocal
harmony
• judge and clinician for Eurovision Choir 2019
• produced gold & platinum albums by Straight No Chaser, Committed, & DCappella
and was on screen in “Pitch Slapped” & “Pitch Battle”
• produced and arranged first all a cappella musical on Broadway: “In Transit”
ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
61

Helene Stureborg
Sweden
Member of the World Choir Council
• worked as choral conductor and pedagogue at the Stockholms Musikgymnasium/
Kungsholmens gymnasium
• conductor of the Stockholms Musikgymnasium Chamber (SMK) Choir since 2002
• started her own ensemble Helene Stureborgs chamber choir (HSK) which has
won Grand Prix in both Cork choral competition in Ireland and in the Grieg choral
competition in Norway
• teacher in choral conducting at the Royal University College of Music in Stockholm
• artistic planning manager of the Swedish Radio Choir
• member of the board of the Swedish Choral director´s association,and also a
founding member in the Steering Committee of the World Choral Conducting
Network
Dr. Anna Ungureanu
Romania
• conductor of the National Chamber Choir MADRIGAL – MARIN CONSTANTIN
since 2014
• Artistic Director & Head of Music Department of CANTUS MUNDI NATIONAL
PROGRAM since 2011
• jury for multiple events such as World Choir Games – Auckland, New Zealand
(2024) , “Gavriil Musicescu” International Choral Competition – Iași, Romania
(2015 – 2023), National Festival & Competition for Romanian Pop Music
Interpretation – “Trophy of Youth”, Amara, Romania (2023) and many more
Member of the World Choir Council
Hans van den Brand
Netherlands
Member of the World Choir Council
• vocalist, conductor, arranger, vocal coach, workshop leader, adjudicator, teacher,
publicist and organizer of International Vocal Group Festival 1996 - 2004
• studied music education, piano and choral conducting at the Brabant
Conservatory
• gained international fame with Fontys Jazz Choir, with which he won the TV
competition Korenslag in 2010 and became World Champion Jazz in 2016 during
the World Choir Games
• university lecturer in music education and choir conducting at the Fontys
Academy for Music Education Tilburg and the Conservatory of Amsterdam
• coach at vocal group Des Unique Tilburg, male vocal ensemble Dubbel Zes Den
Bosch and male choir Daan Zomer Utrecht
62

Morten Vinther
Denmark
• Danish conductor, singer, producer, and composer with a master’s degree from
The Royal Academy of Music in Aalborg, Denmark
• from 2010 to 2020, a member of the renowned Swedish vocal group The Real
Group, touring and collaborating internationally
• active in various choirs and ensembles in Denmark, gaining experience with
both small vocal groups and larger choral settings
• his broad background provides him with a unique perspective on vocal music,
both as an educator and as an artist, spanning jazz and contemporary vocal &
choral music
• now based in Germany, working with ensembles like Syng Selected, Åkervinda,
POSTYR, Latvian Voices, Perlemor, Bonner Jazzchor, Songs of The Moment ao.
Prof. Lingfen Wu
China
• first Director and founder of China Conservatory of Music Conducting
Department
• Director of Artistic Committee of China Chorus Association
• specialist group member of China Education Ministry Artistic Committee
• choral conductor of National Centre for the Performing Arts of China
• Vice President of World Music and Art Educational Organization
• outstanding Music professional since her 1983 conducting engagement for
China’s first Show of “Le Nozze di Figaro” from W.A.Mozart
Advisory Board Member
of the World Choir Council
Prof. Shanshan Xing
China
• choral conductor and composer, professor, vocal coach, visiting scholar by the
Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, member of experts of MOE
of China, chairman of Beijing Acapella Alliance, Vice President of Beijing Chorus
Association, choral activist
• frequently invited as an adjudicator, conductor and expert
• participated in the artistic directing of the 70th anniversary celebration gala of the
People’s Republic of China and the Opening Ceremony of 2022 Beijing Olympic
Winter Games and awarded by Beijing Organizing Committee for the 2022 Olympic
and Paralympic Winter Games
• committed to the promotion of chorus art, initiator of National Acapella
Competition in Beijing and Ten Thousand People Choral Season of Beijing
ADJUDICATORS AND CLINICIANS
63

16 TH INTRNATIONAL
CHOIR COMPETITION AND
FESTIVAL BAD ISCHL
Salzkammergut, Austria
April 29 – May 3, 2026
64
interkultur.com/badischl2026

OFFICIAL SONG
The Infinite Bridge
“There’s a place in my hometown,” begins our
Official Song, The Infinite Bridge. And that place
is for you.
With this song, we want to welcome you – to make
you smile, make you sing, share the hope for the
times, we are living in. We invite you to open your
heart to every melody and to every human being,
you meet here.
The official song is an unique greeting in both
words and music from the internationally
acclaimed singer-songwriter duo Tina Dickow
(Tina Dico) and Helgi Jónsson. They share not
only their home in Iceland and three beautiful
children, but also a deep, lifelong love for the
unique Nordic musical spirit.
In The Infinite Bridge, Tina and Helgi weave
together the Nordic tone and international
sound, creating a heartfelt celebration of music,
community, and the joy of singing – across
borders and beyond differences. The song is a
tribute to inclusion and diversity, honoring every
voice and every story.
The song consists of four parts: verse, bridge,
chorus and interlude and comes in different
arrangements from the hand of the well estimed
conductor of Vocal Line, Jens Johansen, who
has published numerous arrangements for popchoir.
So please – sing with us, and join in this shared
hope for love, connection, and a brighter future.
© Marinó Thorlacius
OFFICIAL SONG
65

Tutti
Tutti
Tutti
Tutti
Tutti
Tutti
S
AS
AT
BT
B
The Infinite Bridge
Theme Hymn
European Choir Games, Aarhus 2025
The SATB Infinite Bridge
Official Theme Hymn Song
European Choir Games, Aarhus 2025
SATB
Tutti
Tutti
q = 120
Verse 1
place in my home
C
- town
D
& # 4 ∑ ∑ ∑ Ó œ œ œ ‰ j j œ œ
j j Œ
F
œ œ œ
& # B m
C
C
D
Œ œ.
œ œ
œ œ.
œ œ œ
œ
œ
œ
j j j Œ
.
There’s a
œ.
placeœ
inœ my home - town
œ
œ œ œ œ œ
& #
waves hit The In - fi -nite
Bridge Where the view of the cit - y makes me
B m
C
C
D
Œ
œ œ.
œ œ
œ
œ
j j j Œ
.
œ. œ œ
œ
œ œ
& # B
œ œ œ
waves œ Œ C
C
D
B m7
# hit œ The
œ œ œ Œ œ œ
j
In - fi -nite
Bridge
˙
Where
œ œ j Ó j j
the œ
view of the cit - y makes me
˙ œ œ œ œ œ œ œ
& #
smile makes me sing There’s a hymn that I found
Washed up
B
œ Œ C
C
D
B m7
# œ
œ œ Œ œ j
œ ˙ œ œ j Ó j j
œ ˙ œ œ œ œ
& # C
C
D
B
‰ j œ
j
œ
œ
smile makes me sing
œ. œ ‰
There’s aœ
hymn that I found
Washed up
œ œ
œ
j
˙ œ œ œ œ. œ # œ œ œ
& #
A part of you, a part of me For the times we're liv - ing in
C
C
D
B
‰ j œ
j
œ œ. œ œ
‰
œ œ
œ
j
˙ œ œ œ œ. œ # œ œ œ
C
3 G/d
G/b
C
#
A part of you, a part of me For the times we're liv - ing in
& . œ Œ œ œ
j
œ œ. œ ˙ œ ‰ j œ œ œ œ œ ˙.
7
7
11
11
16
16
Bridge
20
Bridge
#
&
20
#
& V
?
#
V
? #
q = 120
& # 4 4
. œ Œ Óœ œ œ
.
C
Soft pop-rock
∑
Soft pop-rock
For ev' - ry sea -
3 G/d
For ev' - ry
sea
-
.
œ Œ Óœ œ œ
œ .
Œ Óœ œ œ
œ Œ Ó
∑ ∑ Ó œ œ
F
œ. ˙
œ.
˙
3
For ev' - ry
sea -
œ. ˙
3
sea -
For ev' - ry sea
˙
sea
-
son
j
œ ˙
son
œ ˙
J
son
œ ˙
J
son
son
˙
son
Music and lyrics: Tina Dickow & Helgi Jónsson
Arrangement: Jens Johansen
Music and lyrics: Tina Dickow & Helgi Jónsson
Arrangement: Jens Johansen
Verse 1
There’s a
G/b
‰ j
œ
œ œ œ œ
We're not
3
made of
3
œ ‰
j
J œ œ œ œ
œ ‰
œ ‰
C
œ ‰ j œ
j œ œ
j
œ
We're not
3
made of
3
3
We're not made of
3
J œ œ œ œ
3
We're not made of
We're not made of
3
J œ œ œ œ
We're not made of
D
j
œ œ.
Where the
there on the beach
C
Œ
œ ˙
.
stone stone
œ ˙.
stone stone
œ ˙.
stone
œ ˙.
œ
stone
œ
Where the
there on the beach
stone
stone
© Tina Dickow & Helgi Jónsson
66
© Tina Dickow & Helgi Jónsson

2 The Infinite Bridge
S
A
T
B
24
#
&
#
&
#
V
? #
3
Œ. j œ
œ œ œ
˙
We're loved for
Ó
no
Œ. j œ
œ œ œ
˙
3
We're loved for
Ó
no
A m7
œ.
rea
˙
rea
œ.
rea
˙
rea
j
œ ˙
˙
- son
We're not a -
J œ ˙
3
- son
We're not a -
3
˙
G/b
œ Œ œ œ œ
- son
3
We're not a - lone
3
œ
Œ œ œ œ
œ Œ œ œ œ
œ Œ œ œ œ
w
w
lone
œ œ œ œ
lone
w
- son
We're not a - lone
C
D
œ Œ
f
œ Œ
f
j œ œ.
When we
j œ œ.
When we
œ Œ J œ œ.
f
œ Œ
f
When we
J œ œ.
When we
Chorus
S
#
&
29
E m
œ
Œ Œ. j œ
œ
Œ
D
œ
œ
G
œ Œ Œ. j œ
G/b
œ Œ œ œ œ
3
C
˙.
œ œ
A
#
&
sing,
sing
œ Œ Œ. j œ
Raise your
œ Œ œ œ
voice
œ Œ Œ.
Sing
J œ
Op - en your heart to ev' -
3
œ Œ œ œ œ
. ˙
œ œ
T
B
#
V
? #
sing,
œ Œ Œ.
sing,
œ Œ Œ.
sing,
sing
J œ
sing
J œ
sing
Raise your
œ Œ œ œ
Raise your
œ Œ œ œ
Raise your
voice
œ Œ Œ.
voice
Sing
J œ
œ Œ Œ. J œ
mel:
Sing
voice
Sing
Op - en your heart to ev' -
œ Œ œ œ œ
3
Op - en your heart to ev' -
œ Œ œ œ œ
˙.
˙.
œ œ
œ œ
3
Op - en your heart to ev' -
S
A
T
B
#
&
34
#
&
#
V
? #
A m7
œ œ œ œ œ œ
ry me lo dy
œ œ œ œ œ œ
- ry me - lo - dy
oh Just sing,
sing Let your-self
œ œ œ œ œ œ
- ry me - lo - dy
oh Just sing,
sing Let your-self
œ
œ œ œ
œ œ
D
˙
˙
˙
˙
Ó
Ó
Ó
Ó
B m7
Ó
Œ œ
- - - Just sing,
Let your-self
œ œ œ œ
˙.
. ˙
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oh Just sing,
sing Let your-self
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be
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be
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be
OFFICIAL SONG
67

The Infinite Bridge
3
S
39
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heard
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3
œ Œ œ œ œ
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ry har mo ny
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43
D
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48
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ten
68

4 The Infinite Bridge
S
52
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&
G/b
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D G/b To Coda
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j
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ten
j
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ten
Tutti
Verse 2
& # F C
Ó œ œ œ.
56
There's a
j
œ
j
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j œ
place in my heart
D
œ
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Where your
B m
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words hit a fra - gile
C
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spot
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Tutti
61
& #
C
œ.
j
œ
sound of
j
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your voice
D
œ
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makes me
B
œ Œ # œ œ œ
smile Makes me sing
C
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C
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j
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j
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Tutti
67
B m7
& # ‰ .
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j œ
j
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j
˙ œ œ œ œ. œ # œ œ œ
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C
up
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C
you,
a part of
D
me
For the times
B
we're liv-ing in
S
A
Coda
#
&
#
&
72
C
‰ œ j œ œ œ œ œ
˙
I hear you and me in
Ó
œ œ œ œ Œ
har-mo-ny
Ó
G/b
j
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.
.
C
˙
∑
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G/b
rep. ad lib.
∑
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j
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Improvisations
Listen to all the sounds around you
˙
∑
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j
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œ.
j
œ
U
w
C(add9)
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w
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V
#
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j
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w
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OFFICIAL SONG
69

MEDALS AND TROPHIES
24-YEAR-OLD JEWELRY DESIGN STUDENT FROM AARHUS DESIGNS MEDALS AND TROPHIES
Meet the designer: Ida Elena Kammersgaard Bek
I am a 24-year-old jewelry design student from Aarhus, a city that has shaped my identity and creativity.
Growing up in Aarhus, I’ve been deeply inspired by its unique mix of nature, culture, and urban life. My
passion lies in creating designs that balance sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality, as I aspire to
launch my own jewelry business.
Design Philosophy
As a designer, I find beauty in the interaction between light and surface: reflections on the
harbor, patterns in a glass of juice, or the shimmer of a disco ball. My work captures moments of
movement, translating fleeting experiences into tangible forms. Inspired by Aarhus, I combine the
calm, asymmetrical flow of nature with the vibrant energy of city life, creating designs that are both
harmonious and dynamic.
70

Concept and Inspiration
The design for medals and trophies combines
Aarhus with the values of the European Choir
Games:
One key inspiration is The Infinite Bridge – which
symbolizes endless connections between people,
cultures, and places – perfectly aligning with the
spirit of the European Choir Games. The bridge’s
link between water and land also reflects Aarhus’
harmony between nature and city life.
Another inspiration is rainbow, a distinctive
feature whose colors represent diversity and
different perspectives, openness, and the
collective experience. The beautiful colors of the
rainbow are reflected in both the bands of the
medals and the design of the trophies.
Rather than directly replicating these elements, I
have incorporated their essence into the design.
I hope you will receive both medals and trophies
with pride and feel connected to singing, to
Aarhus, and to each other.
THE MEDALS AND TROPHIES
71

VENUES
Aarhus Cathedral
CONCERTS
Aarhus Cathedral (Aarhus Domkirke) is located
by Store Torv and Bispetorv in the center of
Aarhus. The cathedral seats approx. 1,000 people
and at 93 meters it is the longest church building
in Denmark. It features beautiful acoustics and
frequently presents choir concerts with local and
international choirs.
Address: Store Torv, 8000 Aarhus
Bispetorv
PARADE OF NATIONS, CONCERTS
Bispetorv is a large public square in the center of
Aarhus. It faces Aarhus Cathedral to the north,
Aarhus Theater to the east, and is located close
to the historic Latin Quarter. Bispetorv was last
renovated in 2016, changing it from a parking
lot into a venue for many public events and
gatherings in the city. Bispetorv is situated right
in the middle of the most bustling and vibrant part
of the city, and any performance at this popular
square is sure to be noticed by many.
Address: Bispetorvet, 8000 Aarhus
72

Djurslands Bank Arena
CEREMONIES
Djurslands Bank Arena is the largest concert
location in Aarhus with an audience capacity of
7,000 people. The arena is located approx. 2 km
from the city center and provides a wide range of
musical experiences, with previous performers
including Lionel Richie and TOTO. The arena
offers great acoustics and a versatile stage.
Address: Stadion Allé 70, 8000 Aarhus
Dokk1
COMPETITIONS, CONCERTS
Dokk1 is a cultural hub and central meeting
place for the people of Aarhus. Housing the city’s
main library, the building is also home to several
stages and lots of activities for all ages. Dokk1
provides space for communities, immersion,
learning, play and movement.
THE VIEW is commonly used for lectures, art
fairs, or as a meeting place for children and study
groups.
STORE SAL seats up to 247 people and is
frequently used for talks, concerts, screenings
and more.
Address: Hack Kampmanns Plads 2,
8000 Aarhus
VENUES
73

MUSIKHUSET STAGES
COMPETITIONS, CONCERTS
Musikhuset Aarhus is the largest concert hall
complex in Scandinavia, seating more than
3,600 people in total. Located in the city center,
Musikhuset is Aarhus’ main venue for music.
It contains six concert halls and nine stages
and is home to Den Jyske Opera and Aarhus
Symfoniorkester.
STORE SAL is the heart of Musikhuset.
Throughout the years, it has been the setting of
many magical musical experiences delivered by
national and international stars. The hall is built
as an auditorium seating 1,588 guests. Store sal
presents everything from classical ballet, opera,
rock concerts and musicals.
LILLE SAL: Lille Sal offers beautiful acoustics
and intimate concerts. It is frequently used for
small theater productions, concerts, lectures
and conferences. The music hall is originally
designed for chamber music but has since been
updated with evoke panels making it acoustically
flexible. As such it is very suitable for concerts
with both acoustic and amplified sound.
SYMFONISK SAL: Symfonisk sal is built
specifically for Aarhus Symfoniorkester and
classical, symphonic and acoustic music. The
result is an extraordinarily pleasant and neutral
sounding concert hall, that provides the musicians
on stage with uniquely positive feedback. The hall
seats 1,170 audience members.
RYTMISK SAL: Rytmisk sal presents everything
from concerts, standup shows, dance and theater
productions. The concert hall has a capacity of up
to 1,000 standing audience members. For a more
intimate concert experience, chairs and tables
can be brought in to create the perfect ambience.
FOYER SYD: The foyer at Musikhuset is a
beautiful and open space of 2,000 square meters.
It welcomes guests with plenty of daylight from
the large glass panes, offering a lovely insideyet-outside
atmosphere among olive trees,
artwork and cozy lounge areas. This is also
where you’ll find Musikhuset’s café, a restaurant
and a cocktailbar. The foyer is frequently used for
concerts and art exhibits.
CAFÉSCENEN: Caféscenen (the café stage) is
located in the foyer of Musikhuset. Events in
this area are varied and can be anything from
talks and samples of upcoming shows to small
rhythmic or classical concerts. The audience is
seated at café tables and in cozy and comfortable
furnishings, offering a unique opportunity for
intimate concerts.
Address: Thomas Jensens Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C
74

Skt. Lukas Kirke
COMPETITIONS
Skt. Lukas Kirke is a large church constructed in
the neoclassical style. It is located in the midst
of the bustling neighborhood of Frederiksbjerg,
right by Ingerslev Boulevard in central Aarhus.
The high ceiling and beautiful, airy church space
provides incredible acoustics, perfect for a wide
range of concerts. The venue seats approx. 450
people.
Address: Sankt Lucas Kirkeplads 1, 8000 Aarhus
Salling ROOFTOP
CONCERTS
Salling ROOFTOP is a uniquely beautiful and
breathtaking space, elevated above the main
shopping street of Aarhus. The rooftop garden is
located on top of Salling department store and
offers an incredible 360 degree view of the city’s
skyline and harbor. Experience beautiful choral
music in this urban oasis featuring the most
stunning backdrop the city has to offer.
Address: Søndergade 27, 8000 Aarhus
VENUES
75

Vor Frue Kirke
CONCERTS
Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady) is – like the
Aarhus Cathedral - a medieval church and the
foundations of the church date back to 1060 AD.
Vor Frue Kirke is one of the most musically active
church spaces in Aarhus. Aside from liturgical
concerts, the church frequently presents
performances by renowned local choirs and the
students attending the Royal Academy of Music
Aarhus (RAMA).
Address: Frue Kirkeplads 3, 8000 Aarhus
Langenæs Kirken
CONCERTS
Langenæs Kirken, Citychurch, designed by Arne
Gravers and Johan Richter. Langenæs Kirken
was built with funds collected through door-todoor
fundraising campaigns.
Address: Langenæs Kirken,
Kirkedammen 2, 8000 Aarhus C
76

VENUES
77

vej
Parade of Nations Route
Transportation
Workshops
Food Hall
Silkeborgvej
Venues
ren Frichs Vej
78
LANGENÆS
KIRKEN
Just a 30 minute walk
from the city center
LANGENÆS
LANGENÆS
Skanderborgvej
Marselis Blvd.
j
Vejlegade
GODSBANEN
Jyllands Allé
Sonnesgade
De Mezas vej
SKT. LUKAS KIRKE
Skovgaardsg
Vejlegade
De M
BROB
SKO
SKT. LU
Vald
Ingerslevs

Vester Allé
NÆS
EN
AARHUS
MUSIKSKOLE
Nø
VOR FRUE
KIRKE
Vestergade
Møllestien
Christiansgade
Klostergade
Frederiksgade
FO-BYEN
Kloste
Åboulevarden
Kloster
torv
Gulsm
AARHUS
DOMKIRKE
Skanderborgve
Marselis Blvd.
Søndergade
Fiskergade
Østergade
Graven
BISPETORV
SALLING
ROOFTOP
Jyllands Allé
AARHUS
KATEDRALSKOLE
Skolegade
Hack Kampmanns Plads
ade
MUSIKHUSET
Rådhuspladsen
JERG-
LEN
emarsgade
osenvangs Allé
Frederiks Allé
Blvd.
Banegårdsgade
Værkmestergade
Jægergårdsgade
Sankt Pauls Gade
ecks Vej
RIDEHUSET
Odensegade
Mølleparken
Park Allé
RÅDHUSPARKEN
RAILWAY
STATION
Ryesgade
Sønder Allé
Ny Banegårdsgade
BUS
STATION
Spanien
Jyllands Allé
Europaplads
DOKK1
DJURSLANDS
BANK ARENA
Just a 30 minute walk
from the city center
CITY MAP
79

PARTICIPANT INFORMATION
Important addresses
• Musikhuset Aarhus (Festival Office)
Thomas Jensens Allé 2
• Ridehuset Vester Allé 1
• Djurslands Bank Arena Stadion Allé 70
• Bispetorv Bispetorvet
• Aarhus Domkirke (Cathedral) Store Torv
• Vor Frue Kirke Frue Kirkeplads 3
• Skt. Lukas Kirke Sankt Lucas Kirkeplads 1
• Langenæs Kirken Langenæs Allé 61
• Dokk1 Hack Kampmanns Plads 2
• Salling Rooftop Søndergade 27
• Aarhus Katedralskole, Skolegyde 1-3
• Godsbanen
Karen Wegeners Gade 8, Remisen, Kedlen
• Brobjergskolen,
Valdemarsgade 1, Stub 2 & Stub 4
Practice rooms for rent
• Aarhus Musikskole, Vester Allé 3, Officersalen –
choirs may rent the room
• FO-byen Frederiksgade 78C, Foredragssalen –
choirs may rent the room
Public transportation
Aarhus has a well-functioning public transport system
with both train, buses and Letbanen (light rail).
Download the app Rejseplanen which is an overview of
all public transport options, with departure and arrival
times, locations of stops, travel time, and so on.
Program information
Most concerts and workshops have free admission.
Ticketed concerts and shows can be found via the QR
code.
Behavior during concerts
We kindly ask you to switch off the sound of your mobile
devices during all concerts and workshops. Before the
concerts, all relevant program info can be accessed
digitally by using your devices.
Need Medical Assistance?
If you need medical assistance between 8 am and 4 pm
for minor injuries or mild illness, please contact the
nearest general practice clinic. You can get the phone
number and address at the hotel reception.
For urgent medical assistance between 4 pm and
8 am, as well as on Saturdays and Sundays, please
contact the medical emergency service in the Central
Denmark Region at +45 7011 3131. They will usually ask
you to visit the emergency clinic at Aarhus University
Hospital (Skejby), Palle Juul-Jensens Boulevard 161,
8200 Aarhus N. If you are unable to go to the clinic, a
dozctor can be sent to your location. Please remember
to provide your exact address.
In case of serious injury or severe illness, call the
emergency services at 112 at any time.
Social runs
Get to know the city in a pace suited for everyone. All
you need to bring are your running shoes and show up
at Musikhuset on either:
Monday 30 June – 8 am
Wednesday 2 July – 8 am
Friday 4 July – 8 am
Other fun activities
All choir games participants can access the amusement
park Tivoli Friheden for free on selected days during
the festival. You can find more relevant info on this and
other fun activities in the hand-out material for each
participating choir.
PROGRAM
INFORMATION
80

MAY 14-22, 2027 | PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA
THE ROYAL CHORAL AWARD
SING FOR THE KING
INTERKULTUR.COM/CAMBODIA2027
81

82
YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!

EVENTS
83

84
8

SATURDAY,
JUNE 28, 2025
OFFICIAL EVENTS 86
Opening Ceremony
85

SATURDAY, JUNE 28, 2025
Official Events
19h30
Djurslands Bank Arena
OPENING CEREMONY
THE CALL OF THE EARTH – Aarhus Choirs Welcome the European Choir Games Aarhus 2025
When the European Choir Games Aarhus 2025 open, it will be with an impressive official program
featuring flags, speeches, and, not least, beautiful choral music to welcome the many singers from
around the world.
The musical highlight of the evening is The Call of the Earth – a unique choral work created
collaboratively by Aarhus’ choirs as a resonant gesture to our guests.
When the European Choir Games Aarhus 2025 begin, a special call will sound – The Call of the Earth;
a work shaped in unity by the choirs of Aarhus, as a resonant gesture and a heartfelt welcome to our
guests from across the globe. Here, the Earth speaks – and we listen. The primal human whispers
through the ages, and the myths sing in the many voices of the choir. They call us to awareness, to
action, to feel the state the world is in – climatically, socially, humanly. The rainbow’s seven colors
stretch like a bridge between heaven and earth, moving from the first spark of creation, through
Norse mythology, and into the cries of our own time – a roar in the midst of moral and ecological
imbalance. On the edge of Ragnarok, hope emerges – urging us to open our eyes and ears, to see
and listen with genuine presence – and to live in respect, diversity, and harmony with both people
and nature. Seven colours. Seven scenes. Seven themes. A journey from the dawn of time, through
the unrest of today, toward a future yet to be born. From Aarhus’ grounded heart to the pulse of the
world – and back again.
86

28
CHOIRS:
Akademisk Kor Aarhus & Aarhus U (Denmark)
Conductor: Jonas Rasmussen
Skt. Clemens Drengekor (Denmark)
Conductor: Brian Stenger Poulsen
Aarhus Pigekor (Denmark)
Conductor: Birgitte Næslund Madsen
Maestra (Denmark)
Conductor: Malene Rigtrup
Mariagerfjord Pigekor (Denmark)
Conductor: Christian Fris-Ronsfeld
Sora (Denmark)
Conductor: Birgitte Næslund Madsen
RAMA Voices (Denmark)
Conductor: Jim Daus Hjernøe
Vocal Line (Denmark)
Conductor: Jens Johansen
Postyr (Denmark)
Dopplers (Denmark)
Kor72 (Denmark)
ORCHESTRA:
Aarhus Jazz Orchestra
CONDUCTOR:
Carsten Seyer-Hansen
Jim Daus Hjernøe
Jens Johansen
VISUALS:
Alberte Nikoline Lauersen
DIRECTOR:
Astrid Vang-Petersen
MODERATORS:
Tine Fris-Ronsfeld
Kristoffer Fynbo Thorning
SATURDAY, SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 29, 2025
87

88
9

SUNDAY,
JUNE 29, 2025
COMPETITIONS 90
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
DOKK1 - Store Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
CONCERTS 92
Celebration Concert
Friendship Concerts
WORKSHOPS 94
Morten Vinther (Denmark)
Deke Sharon (USA)
89

SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
Competitions
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
10h00-10h30
O7 – GOSPEL, SPIRITUAL,
MUSIC OF SPIRIT & FAITH
THE OPEN COMPETITION
09h30-10h30
O4 – ADULT CHOIRS
13h00
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
14h00-16h00
C4 – ADULT CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
THE OPEN COMPETITION
15h30-17h00
O9 – FOLKLORE A CAPPELLA
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
19h30-21h30
GP9 – FOLKLORE A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 1/2)
22h00
90

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!
29
Dokk 1 – Store Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
12h00-13h00
O2 – YOUTH CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
14h30-15h15
O2 – YOUTH CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
THE OPEN COMPETITION
15h00-15h45
O6 – MUSICA SACRA
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
20h00-20h20
C6 – MUSICA SACRA
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
QUALIFICATION
20h20
C6 – MUSICA SACRA
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
91

SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
Concerts
20h00
Musikhuset – Store Sal
THE REAL GROUP
MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERT HERE!
World-Famous Vocal Group Celebrates the Future with
Exclusive Concert at Europe’s Largest Choir Festival in Aarhus
Over the course of their now 40-year career, The Real Group has become
synonymous with world-class vocal music. Since their inception in 1984,
the renowned ensemble has performed nearly 3,000 concerts around the
globe and continuously pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved
using the voice as the sole instrument.
Meet singers Clara Fornander, Joanné Nugas, Johannes Rückert Becker,
Axel Berntzon, and Daniele Dees in a program featuring an exciting blend
of jazz, pop, and choral music.
The Real Group
Stockholm, Sweden
92

29
FRIENDSHIP CONCERTS
11h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
15h00
• Dokk1 – The View
20h00
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
• Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady)
FIND OUT
WHO IS
PERFORMING
HERE!
SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
93

SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
Workshops
10h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
MORTEN VINTHER (DENMARK)
The Youth Project Choir – Reflections from
Morten Vinther (Syng Selected)
What happens when young singers are invited to
influence the music, the rehearsal process, and the
repertoire itself? In this session, artistic co-leader
Morten Vinther shares reflections from his work
with Syng Selected – Denmark’s national youth
choir.
Learn about the thoughts behind developing an
ambitious, project-based choir, rethinking the
rehearsal culture, and how giving young singers
space to arrange and compose can help shape a
unique artistic identity. The session is structured as
a talk and welcomes dialogue and reflection from
participants to include additional perspectives or
concrete experiences that may help strengthen the
work with project choirs.
94

29
15h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
DEKE SHARON (USA)
Pitch Perfect Singalong
If you think the a cappella scenes in the Pitch Perfect movies are fun, they’re even more fun when you’re
inside the harmonies! Here’s your chance to step into the spotlight and join the magic!
What‘s in store for you?
• Learn one of the arrangements from the movie on the spot.
• Hear hilarious, behind-the-scenes stories from the making of Pitch Perfect.
• Try (if you’d like) singing one of the solos – no pressure, just fun and creativity!
All skill levels are welcome, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced singer.
No stress, no judgment – just music and joy!
SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2025
95

96
0

MONDAY,
JUNE 30, 2025
COMPETITIONS 98
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
DOKK1 - Store Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
CONCERTS 100
Friendship Concerts
WORKSHOPS 101
Maria Guinand (Venezuela)
Deke Sharon (USA)
Tine Fris-Ronsfeld & Kristoffer Fynbo Thorning (Denmark)
97

MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025
Competitions
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
QUALIFICATION
10h00
C4 – ADULT CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
10h30-12h30
C9 – FOLKLORE A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 1/2)
13h00
14h00
15h00
QUALIFICATION
14h00
C9 – FOLKLORE A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 2/2)
16h00
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
19h30-20h30
C7 – GOSPEL, SPIRITUAL,
MUSIC OF SPIRIT & FAITH
QUALIFICATION
20h30
C7 – GOSPEL, SPIRITUAL,
MUSIC OF SPIRIT & FAITH
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
17h00-18h30
GP4 – ADULT CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
QUALIFICATION
20h30
GP4 – ADULT CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
98

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!
30
Dokk 1 – Store Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
10h30-11h30
C2 – YOUTH CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
10h00-11h30
GP6 – MUSICA SACRA
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
QUALIFICATION
11h10
GGP6 – MUSICA SACRA
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
14h00
15h00
QUALIFICATION
14h00
C2 – YOUTH CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
16h00
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
19h00-21h15
GP2 – YOUTH CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
22h00
MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025
99

MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025
Concerts
FRIENDSHIP CONCERTS
11h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
• Dokk1 – The View
17h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
20h00
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
• Aarhus Cathedral
FIND OUT
WHO IS
PERFORMING
HERE!
100

30
Workshops
10h00
Aarhus Cathedral School - Aula
MARIA GUINAND (VENEZUELA)
Discovering Latin American dances and rhythms in choral arrangements (for singers)
Step into the vibrant world of Latin American music with the legendary María Guinand. This is your chance
to explore the rich diversity of rhythms and dances from across Latin America.
What‘s in store for you?
In this workshop, you will explore different rhythmic patterns of iconic dances and songs that represent
various regions from LA, such as the Chacarera, Joropo, Son, Cumbia and Merengue. Don‘t miss this opportunity
to connect with the soul of Latin America! Whether you‘re an experienced singer or a passionate
beginner, this workshop is for everyone who loves music and rhythm.
MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025
101

MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025
Workshops
10h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
DEKE SHARON (USA)
Inspiring Young Singers through Contemporary A Cappella
Popular a cappella has inspired hundreds of thousands of young singers to join collegiate and high school
a cappella groups, and now it’s reaching younger singers. Join this workshop and learn how to educate and
inspire the next generation!
What will you learn?
• How to teach various a cappella styles.
• Create blend, lock in tuning, and solidify a groove.
• Techniques to captivate and inspire young singers – whether in a school choir, a college ensemble,
or your own program.
This workshop is for anyone who’s interested in teaching young singers, from experienced choral educators
to singers who are looking to start a program.
102

30
15h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
TINE FRIS-RONSFELD & KRISTOFFER FYNBO THORNING (DENMARK)
Icebreakers & Vocal Warm Ups
Being part of a group can be a great experience. It‘s
fantastic when all members of a group contribute to
achieving a common goal. When the time you spend
together just flies by, the atmosphere is good, and
everyone‘s spirits are high. Icebreakers are games
and exercises that break the ice and bring people of
all ages closer to each other. Community, personal
development, presence, creativity and curiosity
are strengthened when we put ourselves and each
other at risk – on ice – with icebreakers as a playful
framework. Music and movement are a natural part
of many of the exercises, but the central point of all
icebreakers is the meeting between the individual
and the community. The dynamic duo, Tine Fris-
Ronsfeld & Kristoffer Fynbo Thorning, pour out
inspiration to build trust and better singing in your
choir with fun and playful icebreakers and warm-up
exercises.
MONDAY, JUNE 30, 2025
103

104
1

TUESDAY,
JULY 01, 2025
COMPETITIONS 106
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
DOKK1 - Store Sal
OFFICIAL EVENTS 108
Awards Ceremony
CONCERTS 109
Celebration Concerts
Friendship Concerts
WORKSHOPS 113
Maria Guinand (Venezuela)
105

TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
Competitions
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
09h00
10h00
QUALIFICATION
09h00
GP9 – FOLKLORE A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 2/2)
11h00
12h00
13h00
14h00
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
11h00-11h20
GP7 – GOSPEL, SPIRITUAL,
MUSIC OF SPIRIT & FAITH
QUALIFICATION
11h20
GP7 – GOSPEL, SPIRITUAL,
MUSIC OF SPIRIT & FAITH
15h00
16h00
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
106

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!
01
Dokk 1 – Store Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
QUALIFICATION
09h30
GP2 – YOUTH CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
12h00
13h00
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
107

TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
Official Events
15h00
Djurslands Bank Arena
AWARDS CEREMONY
OPEN COMPETITION
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS COMPETITION
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
2 Youth Choirs
4 Adult Choirs
6 Musica Sacra with accompaniment
7 Gospel, Spiritual, Music of Spirit and Faith
9 Folklore a cappella
108

01
Concerts
19h30
Aarhus Cathedral
PEACE CONCERT
MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERT HERE!
In a world where peace is more important than ever, INTERKULTUR sets a
powerful sign for unity and understanding through the universal language
of music.
3 Danish choirs and 4 international choirs will stage a fantastic concert in
the name of PEACE, to show to the world that music has the power to open
hearts and build bridges between cultures.
A special highlight will be the world premiere of An Explosion of Gratitude,
the winning composition of the competition for the Official Song of the World
Choir Peace Prize held by INTERKULTUR and the World Choir Council.
1 UngKlang
Frederiksberg, Denmark
2 South Denmark Girls‘ Choir
Sønderborg, Denmark
Conductor: Mette Rasmussen
3 Kor72
Denmark
Conductor: Line Groth Riis
1
2
4 Voci de Lumina
Tampa, USA
Conductor: Deah McReynolds
5 iSing Silicon Valley
Palo Alto, USA
Conductor: Jennah Delp Somers
6 Coro Municipal de Cancún
Cancún, Mexico
Conductor: Noé Garrido,
Miguel Ángel García
7 Chamber Singers, HKBUAS Wong Kam Fai
Secondary and Primary School
Shatin, China/Hong Kong SAR
Conductor: Chun Fung Andrew Hon
3
4
5
6 7
TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
109

TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
Concerts
21h00
Bispetorvet
HOPE CONCERT
Following the PEACE Concert in the Aarhus Cathedral, a HOPE Concert will
take place at Bispetorvet, just outside the church.
Here we let high-level youth choirs of very different genres express hope
and spread light, joy and smiles, marking the importance of listening to the
voices of the next generation.
By presenting these partnerships, the concert shows the value of collaborating
across nations and all kinds of differences.
Aarhus Pigekor
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Birgitte Næslund Madsen
Male Voices of the Boys Choir Lucerne
Luzern, Switzerland
Conductor: Andreas Wiedmer
110

01
MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERT HERE!
"THERE IS HOPE AT THE START, IT TELLS ME
NOT TO GIVE UP. A PART OF YOU, A PART OF
ME. FOR THE TIMES WE’RE LIVING IN"
(“The Infinite Bridge” - Official Song of the 6 th European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025)
MidtVest Pigekor
Herning, Denmark
Conductor: Frieda Funk
Syng Selected
Denmark
Conductors: Line Groth Riis & Morten Vinther
TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
111

TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
Concerts
FRIENDSHIP CONCERTS
11h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
• Dokk1 – The View
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
FIND OUT
WHO IS
PERFORMING
HERE!
112

01
Workshop
10h00
Aarhus Cathedral School - Aula
MARIA GUINAND (VENEZUELA)
Diving into the exciting world of Latin American choral repertoire (for conductors)
Discover the evolving landscape of Latin American choral music with one of its most influential
ambassadors! In this workshop, María Guinand will provide first-hand insights into the innovative ideas and
proposals from contemporary Latin American composers.
What will you learn?
This is a must-attend session for choir conductors seeking to expand their repertoire and understanding
of Latin American music.
• Explore the new ideas and proposals from contemporary composers in Latin American choral
repertoire, focusing on new choral compositions and arrangements.
• Gain insights into some of the most renowned composers of the region.
• Learn firsthand from the world-renowned choral and orchestral conductor María Guinand, whose
expertise and passion will inspire your work.
This is a must-attend session for choir conductors seeking to expand their repertoire and understanding
of Latin American music.
TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
113

114
2

WEDNESDAY,
JULY 02, 2025
CONCERTS 116
Celebration Concert
115

02
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2, 2025
Concerts
20h00
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY CHOIR &
AKADEMISK KOR AARHUS
MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERT HERE!
Outstanding Double Concert with Two of the World’s Best Youth Choirs
Akademisk Kor Århus and the Stellenbosch University Choir present a unique and exclusive concert
as part of their participation in Europe’s largest choir festival, the European Choir Games, which will
take place in Aarhus in the summer of 2025.
World’s Best Choir
The Stellenbosch University Choir is one of the best amateur choirs in the world and was number
one of the INTERKULTUR World Ranking list for 12 consecutive years until 2024. The choir has set
a global benchmark and serves as an inspiration to other ensembles through its exceptional blend
of high musical quality, modern repertoire, innovative stage presentation, and its delivery of a wide
range of distinctive South African musical styles. At this concert, the choir will present a diverse
program featuring South African music and contemporary pop arrangements.
The Akademisk Kor Århus, conducted by Jonas Rasmussen, is one of Denmark’s leading professionally
working amateur choirs. For this concert, the choir invites the audience on a journey through Nordic
landscapes and moods – from bright summer nights to the soul’s deep longing. Music from the Nordic
region by Håkan Parkman, Bo Holten, and Svend S. Schultz weaves a sonic bridge between tradition
and renewal, while works from distant regions such as India and Indonesia open windows to faraway
horizons.
Stellenbosch University Choir
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
Conductor: André van der Merwe
Akademisk Kor Århus
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Jonas Rasmussen
116

INTERNATIONAL
CHOIR FESTIVAL
& COMPETITION
MAY 14-18, 2026
LAHTI, FINLAND
Be Part of it!
INTERKULTUR.COM/LAHTI2026
117

118
3

THURSDAY,
JULY 03, 2025
OFFICIAL EVENTS 120
Parade of Nations
CONCERTS 121
Celebration Concert
119

THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025
Official Events
15h30
Bispetorvet
OFFICIAL OPENING #2 AND PARADE OF NATIONS
Come join us, when the second half of the European Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus
2025 kicks off! At this second opening ceremony, VÅR and SONO – two of Aarhus‘ talented choirs will
perform, and there will be official opening speeches by the President of INTERKULTUR and Aarhus’s
Mayor of Culture. Well-known Danish choir leader, Tine Ohrt, will be our host and help us warm up
our voices and energy, and together we will sing the official festival song, The Infinite Bridge.
The pre-program starts at 15h30, at 16h00 we will officially kick off the second part of the festival,
and at 16h15 we parade together through Aarhus and celebrate the motto of INTERKULTUR –
“SINGING TOGETHER BRINGS NATIONS TOGETHER”.
The parade ends at Rådhusparken where we can enjoy the EUROPEAN STREET FESTIVAL, Denmark’s
celebration of the handover of the presidency of the European Union. The City of Aarhus is organizing
a festive day in the central part of Aarhus from 16h00-22h00. At 17h30 the two choirs, NABLA and
Aarhus Teaters Kor, will perform together with Aarhus Jazz Orchestra.
120

03
Concerts
20h00
Musikhuset – Store Sal
NEW NORDIC WORLD
MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERT HERE!
Experience Vocal Line in a spectacular concert that celebrates the Nordic spirit and unfolds the
sound of Nordic music in vast vocal landscapes. This evening features interpretations of songs by
Nordic artists such as Björk, Aurora, Tina Dickow, Ásgeir, and Helgi Jónsson, blended with the choir’s
broader repertoire.
Vocal Line is a modern a cappella choir with 32 singers, conducted by Jens Johansen. Over its 34-year
history, the choir has gained wide recognition throughout Europe and much of the rest of the world.
Founded in 1991 in Aarhus, Vocal Line has been a frontrunner in the development of rhythmic choir
music, both nationally and internationally. Over the years, the choir has continuously pushed the
boundaries of a cappella music, striving for ever higher levels of musical excellence.
Vocal Line
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Jens Johansen
THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2025
121

122
4

FRIDAY,
JULY 04, 2025
COMPETITIONS 124
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
Musikhuset – Lille Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
CONCERTS 126
Celebration Concerts
Friendship Concerts
WORKSHOPS 129
Carsten Seyer-Hansen (Denmark)
Jim Daus Hjernøe (Denmark)
Deke Sharon (USA)
123

FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
Competitions
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
14h00
15h00
16h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
10h30-12h15
O8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
(BLOCK 1/2)
THE OPEN COMPETITION
12h00-13h00
O1 – CHILDREN’S CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
THE OPEN COMPETITION
14h30-15h15
O1 – CHILDREN’S CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
19h00-20h45
O8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
(BLOCK 2/2)
THE OPEN COMPETITION
19h30-20h30
O10 – FOLKLORE
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
22h00
124

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!
04
Musikhuset – Lille Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
11h30-13h00
O3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
THE OPEN COMPETITION
11h30-12h00
O5 – MUSICA SACRA
A CAPPELLA
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
18h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
16h00-18h00
C5 – MUSICA SACRA A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 1/2)
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
THE OPEN COMPETITION
19h30-21h30
O3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
19h30-21h00
C5 – MUSICA SACRA A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 2/2)
QUALIFICATION
21h00
C5 – MUSICA SACRA
A CAPPELLA
FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
125

FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
Concerts
17h00
Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady)
NORDIC NIGHTS
The proud Nordic choral tradition is very rich, and the sound ideal is appreciated and idealized in
many places around the world. Norrköpings Vokalensemble will perform this special partnership
concert together with Aarhus University Choir. The program consists of three parts; a Danish part,
a Swedish part and a joint part. Norrköpings Vokalensemble‘s repertoire spans more than a century
and offers both traditional Nordic choral lyrics and more modern elements. The repertoire reflects
the Nordic tradition both musically and sonorously. The choirs are looking forward to letting their
sounds “marry” each other and forge both new social and musical friendships – something they see
as very valuable in a time characterized by division and conflict. Look forward to a wonderful choir
concert in classic Nordic choral tradition!
Aarhus Universitetskor
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Søren Kinch Hansen
Norrköpings Vokalensemble
Norrköping, Sweden
Conductor: Elin Jonsson
126

MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERTS HERE!
04
20h00
Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady)
NORDIC NIGHTS
You may not know it, but Denmark and central Germany are connected by a musical bridge. The
Danish composer Niels Wilhelm Gade came to Leipzig in 1843 to get a scholarship and met Felix
Mendelssohn Bartholdy and Robert Schumann.
Come and enjoy this special musical friendship project, which builds a musical bridge from Central
Germany to Denmark. Together, the choirs sing a mixed program with lovely choral works from the
German and Danish choral repertoire. You can look forward to a beautiful mix of the well-known and
the unknown, including works that originated from the musical friendship between Felix Mendelssohn
Bartholdy and Niels W. Gade, as well as exciting works by Svend S. Schultz, Rued Langgaard, Fanny
Hensel and Heinrich Schütz.
Jysk Akademisk Kor
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Nils Meier
Konzertchor Leipzig e.V.
Leipzig, Germany
Conductor: Karl Joseph Eckel
FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
127

FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
Concerts
FRIENDSHIP CONCERTS
11h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
• Dokk1 – The View
15h00
• Dokk1 – The View
19h30
• Aarhus Cathedral
20h00
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
FIND OUT
WHO IS
PERFORMING
HERE!
128

04
Workshops
10h00
Aarhus Cathedral School - Aula
CARSTEN SEYER-HANSEN (DENMARK)
Danish Choral Music: A brief survey through five masterpieces written after 1900
Experience 5 selected choral masterpieces written after 1900 from the rich Danish choral literature. After
a brief overview of the choral musical landscape in Denmark, we sing excerpts from works by, among
others, Jørgen Jersild and Per Nørgård.
The works have been chosen and presented by the well-known and charismatic conductor Carsten Seyer-
Hansen, cantor of Copenhagen Cathedral, chief conductor of the Copenhagen Boys‘ Choir, leader of
renowned ensembles and with many assignments as a guest conductor. He also teaches choral conducting
at the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus.
FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
129

FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
Workshops
11h00
Musikhusparken
JIM DAUS HJERNØE (DENMARK)
Vocal Painting
VOPA (Vocal Painting) is a powerful tool for live vocal improvisation, using hand signals to guide singers
in creating music together on the spot. Developed by Jim Daus Hjernøe, this interactive system allows
conductors and singers to shape music in real time – adding harmonies, changing rhythm or key, and
creating entirely new soundscapes. The signals are easy to follow, making it fun and accessible for
everyone to join in. Rooted in the Soundpainting method, VOPA has become a key part of The Intelligent
Choir approach. Come sing along and experience the magic of instant musical creation – no experience
needed!
A philosophy and concept by professor Jim Daus Hjernøe from Denmark.
130

04
15h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
DEKE SHARON (USA)
Inspiring Young Singers through Contemporary A Cappella
Popular a cappella has inspired hundreds of thousands of young singers to join collegiate and high school
a cappella groups, and now it’s reaching younger singers. Join this workshop and learn how to educate and
inspire the next generation!
What will you learn?
• How to teach various a cappella styles.
• Create blend, lock in tuning, and solidify a groove.
• Techniques to captivate and inspire young singers – whether in a school choir, a college ensemble,
or your own program.
This workshop is for anyone who’s interested in teaching young singers, from experienced choral educators
to singers who are looking to start a program.
FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2025
131

132
5

SATURDAY,
JULY 05, 2025
COMPETITIONS 134
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
Musikhuset – Lille Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
CONCERTS 136
Celebration Concerts
Friendship Concerts
WORKSHOPS 140
Başak Doğan (Türkiye)
Deke Sharon (USA)
133

SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
Competitions
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
11h30-12h30
C8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
(BLOCK 1/3)
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
14h30-17h00
C8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
(BLOCK 2/3)
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
09h30-10h30
C1 – CHILDREN’S CHOIRS
QUALIFICATION
10h40
C1 – CHILDREN’S CHOIRS
QUALIFICATION
12h30
C10 – FOLKLORE
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
15h00-15h45
GP1 – CHILDREN’S CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
19h30-20h10
C8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
(BLOCK 3/3)
QUALIFICATION
20h10
C8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
134

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!
05
Musikhuset – Lille Sal
Skt. Lukas Kirke
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
10h30-12h30
C3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
11h00-12h30
GP5 – MUSICA SACRA A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 1/2)
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
18h00
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
14h30-16h00
GP3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
(BLOCK 1/2)
QUALIFICATION
16h00
GP3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
15h00-16h00
GP5 – MUSICA SACRA A CAPPELLA
(BLOCK 2/2)
QUALIFICATION
16h00
GP5 – MUSICA SACRA A CAPPELLA
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
THE CHAMPIONS
COMPETITION
19h00-20h30
C3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
QUALIFICATION
20h30
C3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
135

SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
Concerts
19h30
Langenæs Kirken
WORLD PREMIERE:
SONGS IN THE AIR – JAKOB BUCHANAN
Songs in the Air is a new version of Jakob Buchanan’s Danish Music Award-winning work Song &
Wind, originally composed for classic choir and jazz orchestra. In this performance, the Danish vocal
ensemble Concert Clemens joins forces with Art Ensemble Aarhus comprising some of Denmark‘s
most versatile improvisers and not least Buchanan himself on flugelhorn in a deeply personal and
colorful, poetic and evocative musical encounter. Conducted by Carsten Seyer-Hansen. The piece
reflects on the human connection to nature and is inspired by poems by South African writer Iain
S. Thomas. Drawing on themes such as hope, doubt, time, and eternity, Buchanan has created
atmospheric music rooted in the landscapes of Mols, Denmark, and the Swedish forest region of
Kornhult.
© Thomas Dohn
© Per Bergmann
Concert Clemens
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Carsten Seyer-Hansen
Jakob Buchanan
136

MORE
INFORMATION
ABOUT THE
CONCERTS HERE!
05
20h00
Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady)
NORDIC NIGHTS
Cæciliakoret is a vibrant, mixed choir based in Aarhus, Denmark, known for its engaging performances
and musical competence. Cæciliakoret is not just about singing; it’s about creating musical
experiences. The choir gives several annual a cappella concerts and participates in larger choral
works, demonstrating its versatility and ability to collaborate with other choirs both domestically and
internationally.
As the Ambassador of Albanian Choral Culture, the Siparantum Choir proudly holds 14 significant
awards, contributing to the advancement of global choral artistry. As a cultural ambassador, the choir
shares Kosovo’s rich cultural heritage through music, making a lasting impact on the global stage.
It showcases a diverse repertoire ranging from Renaissance classics to contemporary compositions.
Caeciliakoret Aarhus
Aarhus, Denmark
Conductor: Michael Deltchev
Siparantum Choir
Pejë, Kosovo
Conductor: Memli Kelmendi
SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
137

05
SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
Concerts
FRIENDSHIP CONCERTS
10h30
• Salling ROOFTOP
11h00
• Dokk1 – The View
14h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
14h30
• Dokk1 – The View
17h00
• Salling ROOFTOP
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
19h30
• Aarhus Cathedral
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
FIND OUT
WHO IS
PERFORMING
HERE!
138

International Choir Competition
10-14 September 2026 Great Britain
interkultur.com/blackpool2026
SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
139

SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
Workshops
10h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
BAŞAK DOĞAN (TÜRKIYE)
Beyond the Beat: Pop & Jazz Unexpected
Join Başak Doğan on a rhythmic journey through
the vibrant sounds of contemporary pop and jazz,
infused with a hint of Anatolian flavor. This workshop
is all about groove, creativity, and connection –
expect infectious rhythms, playful polyrhythms,
and spontaneous vocal improvisation using Vocal
Painting. Whether you‘re a seasoned singer or just
love to explore, this 75-minute session offers a joyful
space to experiment, express, and be inspired.
140

05
15h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
DEKE SHARON (USA)
Pitch Perfect Singalong
If you think the a cappella scenes in the Pitch Perfect movies are fun, they’re even more fun when you’re
inside the harmonies! Here’s your chance to step into the spotlight and join the magic!
What‘s in store for you?
• Learn one of the arrangements from the movie on the spot.
• Hear hilarious, behind-the-scenes stories from the making of Pitch Perfect.
• Try (if you’d like) singing one of the solos – no pressure, just fun and creativity!
All skill levels are welcome, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced singer. No stress, no judgment
– just music and joy!
SATURDAY, JULY 5, 2025
141

142
6

SUNDAY,
JULY 06, 2025
COMPETITIONS 144
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
Musikhuset – Lille Sal
OFFICIAL EVENTS 146
Awards Ceremony
Closing Ceremony
CONCERTS 150
Friendship Concerts
WORKSHOPS 151
RoxorLoops (Belgium)
143

SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
Competitions
Musikhuset – Store Sal
Musikhuset – Symfonisk Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
14h00
15h00
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
09h30-11h10
GP8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
QUALIFICATION
11h10
GP8 – JAZZ, POP, SHOW
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
09h30-10h10
GP10 – FOLKLORE
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
QUALIFICATION
10h10
GP10 – FOLKLORE
WITH ACCOMPANIMENT
QUALIFICATION
11h30
GP1 – CHILDREN’S CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
16h00
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
144

YOU CAN DOWNLOAD
THE COMPETITION
PROGRAMS HERE!
06
Musikhuset – Lille Sal
09h00
10h00
11h00
12h00
13h00
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
10h00-11h30
GP3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
(BLOCK 2/2)
QUALIFICATION
11h30
GP3 – CHAMBER CHOIRS
14h00
15h00
16h00
17h00
18h00
19h00
20h00
21h00
22h00
SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
145

06
SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
Official Events
15h00
Djurslands Bank Arena
AWARDS CEREMONY
OPEN COMPETITION
EUROPEAN CHAMPIONS COMPETITION
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS
1 Children’s Choirs
3 Chamber Choirs/Vocal Ensembles
5 Musica Sacra a cappella
8 Jazz, Pop, Show
10 Folklore with accompaniment
146

SEPTEMBER
16-20, 2026
interkultur.com/magdeburg2026
SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
147

SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
Official Events
20h00
Djurslands Bank Arena
CLOSING CEREMONY
The European Choir Games Aarhus 2025 come to an end,
and Aarhus passes the choral baton onward.
With a grand official program, we say thank you and farewell to Aarhus. The Festival Stage Orchestra
and a spectacular Festival Stage Choir formed by nearly 200 singers from all over the world, joined by
the outstanding vocal soloists Karmen Rõivassepp and Diluckshan Jeyaratnam, will perform beloved
songs from iconic films, take you on a journey around the world – from east to west, north to south.
To close the program, we invite all of you to sing “The Infinite Bridge” - the Official Song for this event,
to look back on unforgettable days with new friendships, fantastic performances and beautiful music.
148

06
PROGRAM
1. ABBA-medley from “ABBA-The Movie”
2. Anthem from “Chess”
3. Circle of Life from “The Lion King”
4. Over the Rainbow from “The Wizard of Oz”
5. Skyfall from “Skyfall”
6. The Circus Band
7. Vuelie from “Frozen”
8. The infinite Bridge
PERFORMERS
ORCHESTRA:
The Festival Stage Orchestra
FESTIVAL STAGE CHOIR:
A Few Tones (Austria)
Grupo Vocal Kem B’ix (Costa Rica)
Conductor: Fredy Batzibal Tujal
Cappella Vocale Hechendorf e.V. (Germany)
Conductor: Adele Bassermann
Jysk Akademisk Kor (Denmark)
Conductor: Nils Meier
Caeciliakoret Aarhus (Denmark)
Conductor: Michael Deltchev
Perfect Life Choir (Italy)
Conductor: Filippo Finotti
Green Doves Children‘s Chorus (China)
Conductor: Min Gao
Downey High School EPIC Jazz Choir Alum (USA)
Conductor: Corneliu Olariu
VOCAL SOLOIST:
Karmen Rõivassepp
Diluckshan Jeyaratnam
CONDUCTOR:
Fred Sjöberg
Maarten Van Ingelgem
SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
149

SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
Concerts
FRIENDSHIP CONCERTS
10h00
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
12h00
• Musikhuspladsen (Music House Square)
FIND OUT
WHO IS
PERFORMING
HERE!
150

06
Workshop
10h00
Musikhuset - Rytmisk Sal
RoxorLoops (BELGIUM)
Workshop Beatboxing (Vocal Percussion)
RoxorLoops will introduce you to the endless possibilities of beatboxing! In this workshop, you‘ll learn basic
sounds and techniques, tailored for beginners, and discover how to integrate beatboxing into your choir. By
the end, you‘ll have a solid foundation and some rhythms to kick off your beatboxing journey.
SUNDAY, JULY 6, 2025
151

152

PARTICIPANTS
153

PARTICIPANTS
Serotonin A Cappella Choir
Conductor: Georgie Cullen
Gold Coast, Australia
Founded: 2013
Category: O8
A Few Tones
Graz, Austria
Founded: 2020
Festival
Festival Stage Choir
Cantoholics
Conductor: Siegfried Portugaller
Innsbruck, Austria
Founded: 1990
Category: O2
TU Wien Chor
Conductor: Andreas Ipp
Wien, Austria
Founded: 2012
Category: C8
154

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Chamber Choir Flanders
Conductor: Jeroen Keymeulen
Beerse, Flanders, Belgium
Founded: 2021
Categories: C3, C5
Jeugdkoor Timbre
Conductor: Nienke Winters
Pelt, Belgium
Founded: 2018
Category: C2
Kamerkoor Koriolis
Conductor: Joris Derder
Drongen, Belgium
Founded: 2010
Category: GP3
Mavelle Choir
Conductor: Dirk-Jan Kerris
Hasselt, Flanders, Belgium
Founded: 2019
Category: O3
PARTICIPANTS
155

PARTICIPANTS
Muzamies
Conductor: Jos Vanden Abeele
Gent, Belgium
Founded: 2010
Category: C8
Muzemix Choirs
Conductor: Sofie Brockmans
Dilsen-Stokkem, Belgium
Founded: 2001
Festival
Popkoor Sens
Conductor: Dirk-Jan Kerris
Bilzen, Flanders, Belgium
Founded: 2012
Category: O8
Popkoor Waelrant
Conductor: Sander Meersmans
Antwerpen, Belgium
Founded: 2018
Category: O8
156

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Showkoor Rise Up
Conductor: Elina Vanderhenst
Hamont-Achel, Flanders, Belgium
Founded: 2006
Category: C8
Sugar&Spice, powered by Muzemix
Conductor: Sofie Brockmans
Dilsen-Stokkem, Flanders, Belgium
Founded: 2020
Category: O8
Universitair Koor Antwerpen
Conductor: Dirk De Nef
Antwerpen, Flanders, Belgium
Founded: 1989
Category: O4
Vocal Ecstasy
Conductor: Evi Bex
Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, Belgium
Founded: 2023
Category: O8
PARTICIPANTS
157

PARTICIPANTS
Zanggroep Just Music
Conductor: Karin Lauwers
Pelt, Belgium
Founded: 1990
Category: C8
Ohana
Conductor: Dimitar Kostantzaliev
Sofia, Bulgaria
Founded: 2014
Categories: GP3, GP5
Univox Choir
Conductor: Malcolm Cody MacFarlane
Toronto, Canada
Founded: 2005
Category: O3
Green Doves Children’s Chorus
Conductor: Min Gao
Sichuan, Chengdu, China
Founded: 2002
Category: O10
Festival Stage Choir
158

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Guangzhou South China
Experimental Art Troupe
Conductor: Zhengsong Zhou
Guangzhou, China
Founded: 2010
Category: O9
Shanghai Jincai Experimental
Junior Middle School Choir SJEJMSC
Conductor: Chuanjing Ouyang
Shanghai, China
Founded: 2016
Category: O1
Shenzhen Union Choir
Conductor: Guanghui Chen
Shenzhen, China
Founded: 2024
Festival
A-Singers HKBUAS Wong Kam Fai
Secondary and Primary School
Conductor: Chun Fung Andrew Hon
Shek Mun, Shatin, NT, China/Hong Kong SAR
Founded: 2022
Category: GP2
PARTICIPANTS
159

PARTICIPANTS
Chamber Singers, HKBUAS Wong Kam Fai
Secondary and Primary School
Conductor: Chun Fung Andrew Hon
Shatin, China/Hong Kong SAR
Founded: 2024
Category: GP6
Tiffany Lau Vocal Performance
Academy Choir
Conductor: Tiffany Lau
Tsuen Wan, China/Hong Kong SAR
Founded: 2015
Category: O1
Taipei Fu-Hsing Private School Choir
Conductor: Pei Jung Lee
Taipei, Chinese Taipei
Founded: 1999
Categories: GP1, GP8
Coro Kem B‘ix
Conductor: Fredy Batzibal Tujal
Heredia, Costa Rica
Founded: 2011
Category: O3
Festival Stage Choir
160

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Vocal Ensemble Brevis
Conductor: Antoaneta Radočaj-Jerković
Osijek, Croatia
Founded: 1996
Category: GP3
Abbellimento
Conductor: Jarmila Novenková
Prague, Czech Republic
Founded: 2005
Category: GP6
Girls’ Choir Permoník Karviná
Conductor: Martina Juríková, Karina Grimová
Karviná, Czech Republic
Founded: 1966
Categories: GP2, GP9
Jitřenka
Conductor: Elvira Gadžijeva
České Budĕjovice, Czech Republic
Founded: 1966
Category: C1
PARTICIPANTS
161

PARTICIPANTS
Kajetán
Conductor: Anna-Marie Lahodová, Zuzana Kuncová
Pilsen, Czech Republic
Founded: 2014
Categories: O1, O10
Zvonky Praha
Conductor: Jarmila Novenková
Prague, Czech Republic
Founded: 1996
Category: GP2
Aarhus Pigekor
Conductor: Birgitte Næslund Madsen
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 1942
Category: C5
Aarhus Universitetskor
Conductor: Søren Kinch Hansen
Aarhus V, Denmark
Founded: 1995
Festival
162

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Airo
Conductor: Margrethe Debel Christensen
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 2018
Festival
Akademisk Kor Århus
Conductor: Jonas Rasmussen
Aarhus N, Denmark
Founded: 1985
Category: C4
APIUVO
Conductor: Kristine Poulsgaard Tjoernholm
Aarhus C, Denmark
Founded: 2024
Category: O1
Caeciliakoret Aarhus
Conductor: Michael Deltchev
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 1975
Festival
Festival Stage Choir
PARTICIPANTS
163

PARTICIPANTS
Jysk Akademisk Kor
Conductor: Nils Meier
Aarhus C, Denmark
Founded: 1948
Festival Stage Choir
Kaika
Conductor: Freja Maria Nørager Jensen
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 2021
Categories: O8
Kor72
Conductor: Lisbeth Graakjær
Denmark
Founded: 1972
Festival
Maestra
Conductor: Malene Rigtrup
Aarhus C., Denmark
Founded: 2009
Festival
164

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
MidtVest Pigekor
Conductor: Frieda Funk
Herning, Denmark
Founded: 2000
Category: O2
Nordisk Vokalensemble
Conductor: Vibeke Bonde Persson
Randers, Denmark
Founded: 2019
Categories: C3, C5
Roots
Conductor: Lene Høst
Odense, Denmark
Founded: 2019
Category: O3
Skanderborg Girls Choir
Conductor: Freja Nørager
Skanderborg, Denmark
Founded: 2001
Category: C8
PARTICIPANTS
165

PARTICIPANTS
Skanderborg Youth Choir
Conductor: Alice Vestergaard Jensen
Hørning, Denmark
Founded: 1956
Categories: C1, C8
SORA
Conductor: Birgitte Næslund Madsen
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 2023
Categories: C4, C9
South Denmark Children’s Choir
Conductor: Ida Hymoeller
Sønderborg, Denmark
Founded: 1994
Category: O1
South Denmark Female Choir
Conductor: Mette Rasmussen
Sønderborg, Denmark
Founded: 2019
Categories: O3, O5
166

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
South Denmark Girls’ Choir
Conductor: Mette Rasmussen
Sønderborg, Denmark
Founded: 1994
Categories: C2, C6
UngKlang
Frederiksberg, Denmark
Founded: 2021
Festival
Vocal Frostbite
Conductor: Christina Vest
Gentofte, Denmark
Founded: 2012
Category: C8
Vocalí
Conductor: Alice Vestergaard Jensen
Skanderborg, Denmark
Founded: 2012
Category: GP8
PARTICIPANTS
167

PARTICIPANTS
Vocalicious
Conductor: Simon Garnæs Jansfort
Frederiksberg, Denmark
Founded: 2008
Category: O4
Voce Soleil
Conductor: Johan Valdemar Hegaard Gabrielsson
Risskov, Denmark
Founded: 2024
Category: O3
Voicing
Conductor: Kristine Poulsgaard Tjoernholm
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 2019
Festival
Vokalensemblet Dekorum
Conductor: Leon Reimer
Copenhagen, Denmark
Founded: 2016
Categories: C3, C5
168

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Vokalensemblet Vigdis
Conductor: Anne-Terese Sales
Copenhagen, Denmark
Founded: 2020
Category: O4
Vox Mariæ
Conductor: Severin Martin Korsgaard Thorsen
Aarhus N, Denmark
Founded: 2012
Categories: O3, O9
VoxBox
Conductor: Pavlina Salehi
Viborg, Denmark
Founded: 2013
Category: O8
WondAros
Conductor: Søren Detlefsen
Risskov, Denmark
Founded: 2019
Category: O8
PARTICIPANTS
169

PARTICIPANTS
Youth Choir Aarhus U
Conductor: Jonas Rasmussen
Aarhus, Denmark
Founded: 2015
Categories: C5, C8
Gøtu Kirkju Ungdómskór
Conductor: Símun Hammer
Toftir, Faroe Islands
Founded: 2011
Categories: C5, C7
Silvitni
Conductor: Cinthia Gonzalez Parada
Syðrugøta, Faroe Islands
Founded: 2020
Categories: C3, C5
Vocal Ensemble Dominutz
Tampere, Finland
Founded: 2006
Category: O3
170

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Lagidze Choir
Conductor: Magdana Matitaishvili
Batumi, Georgia
Founded: 2008
Category: C1
Tbilisis Sakhelmtsipo Universitetis
Studenturi Kapela
Conductor: Lasha Mirotadze
Tbilisi, Georgia
Founded: 2015
Category: GP4
Cantamus Gießen
Conductor: Elisabeth Tzschentke
Gießen, Germany
Founded: 2009
Category: O3
Cappella Vocale Hechendorf e.V.
Conductor: Adele Bassermann
Hechendorf, Germany
Founded: 2011
Festival
Festival Stage Choir
PARTICIPANTS
171

PARTICIPANTS
Jazzchor der Uni Bonn
Conductor: Jan-Hendrik Herrmann
Bonn, Germany
Founded: 1995
Category: C8
Konzertchor Leipzig e.V.
Conductor: Karl Joseph Eckel
Leipzig, Germany
Founded: 2016
Festival
LOLA Chor
Conductor: Martin Barkowski
Hamburg, Germany
Founded: 1997
Festival
MannSingt! - male vocal ensemble
Conductor: Manuel Knoll
Karlsruhe, Germany
Founded: 2007
Categories: C3, C5
172

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
singOUT Mass Choir
Conductor: Silas Edwin
Bremen, Germany
Founded: 2009
Category: O7
Vocal Temptation e.V.
Conductor: Joël-Marei Besmehn
Hannover, Germany
Founded: 2003
Festival
Vocalensemble Phonova Wernigerode
Conductor: Claudia Zohm
Wernigerode, Germany
Founded: 2009
Categories: GP3, GP5
Vocalensemble Sanct Lambertus
Conductor: Roland Orthaus
Langenberg, Germany
Founded: 1974
Category: O6
PARTICIPANTS
173

PARTICIPANTS
Voices of Munich
Conductor: Maksim Matsiushenkau
München, Germany
Founded: 2014
Categories: GP1, GP5
Lumen Christi Gospel Choir
Conductor: Gergó Lajos
Budapest, Hungary
Founded: 1998
Category: C7
Gema Chandra Cendrawasih
University Choir
Conductor: Elimelekh Daniel Wanma
Jayapura - Papua, Indonesia
Founded: 1980
Categories: GP7, GP9
Gruppo Vocale Incanto
Conductor: Emilio Piffaretti
Dolzago, LC, Italy
Founded: 2015
Categories: O3, O5
174

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Perfect Life Choir
Conductor: Filippo Finotti
Genova, Italy
Founded: 2018
Category: O8
Festival Stage Choir
Siparantum Choir
Conductor: Memli Kelmendi
Pejë, Kosovo
Founded: 2016
Category: GP3
Mixed Choir Monēta
Conductor: Ilze Feldmane
Riga, Latvia
Founded: 2011
Category: O9
Riga Cathedral Choir School Gospel Choir
Conductor: Una Stade
Riga, Latvia
Founded: 2018
Category: C7
PARTICIPANTS
175

PARTICIPANTS
KIVI Youth Choir
Conductor: Danguolė Aukselienė
Vilnius, Lithuania
Founded: 1997
Categories: GP2, GP9
The Male-Efficient
Conductor: Kenny David Yuntalla
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Founded: 2015
Categories: GP4, GP9
Coro Municipal de Cancún
Conductor: Noé Garrido, Miguel Ángel García
Cancún, Mexico
Founded: 2023
Categories: O3, O9
S.P.A.M.
Conductor: Jos Span
Beverwijk, Netherlands
Founded: 2006
Festival
176

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
New Zealand Youth Choir
Conductor: David Squire
Wellington, New Zealand
Founded: 1979
Categories: GP5, GP10
Bærum Pikekor
Conductor: Christina Thingvold, Marius Solevågseide
Bekkestua, Norway
Founded: 1951
Category: GP2
Kaleido Vokal
Conductor: Ida Charlotte Finstad
Skjetten, Norway
Founded: 2000
Category: C9
Kvindelige Studenters Sangforening
Conductor: Marit Tøndel Bodsberg
Oslo, Norway
Founded: 1895
Categories: GP4, GP9
PARTICIPANTS
177

PARTICIPANTS
Sangkoret Noe Ganske Annet
Conductor: Even Holm Hansen
Aas, Norway
Founded: 1986
Festival
Corala “Ciprian Porumbescu”
Conductor: Alexandru Semeniuc
Suceava, Romania
Founded: 1903
Categories: C4, C9
OFFKEYS
Conductor: Bryan Toro
Singapore, Singapore
Founded: 2023
Category: O8
Les Sirènes
Conductor: Lukáš Kunst
Bratislava, Slovakia
Founded: 2018
Categories: GP3, GP10
178

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Pro Musica - Magnolia Childrens Choir
Conductor: Viera Dzoganova
Michalovce, Slovakia
Founded: 1985
Categories: O1, O10
SZSU OZVENA
Conductor: Tomas Vrskovy
Trencianske, Slovakia
Founded: 1946
Categories: C4, C9
The Slovak Teachers’ Choir
Conductor: Štefan Sedlický
Trencianske Teplice, Slovakia
Founded: 1921
Categories: C4, C9
Stellenbosch University Choir
Conductor: André van der Merwe
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
Founded: 1936
Categories: GP4, GP5, GP8
PARTICIPANTS
179

PARTICIPANTS
After Eight
Conductor: Eva Hjelm
Uppsala, Sweden
Founded: 2016
Category: O8
Cantarsis Vocalis
Conductor: Linda Alexandersson
Lund, Sweden
Founded: 2007
Festival
Gideonsbergs Vokalensemble
Conductor: Marten Jansson
Västerås, Sweden
Founded: 1996
Categories: GP3, GP5
Koritsia
Conductor: Linda Alexandersson
Lund, Sweden
Founded: 1994
Category: O6
180

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
LUNDS UNGDOMSKÖR
Conductor: Linda Alexandersson
Lund, Sweden
Founded: 2011
Category: O2
Mölndals Kammarkör
Conductor: Fredrik Berglund
Göteborg, Sweden
Founded: 1990
Category: C3
Norrköpings Vokalensemble
Conductor: Elin Jonsson
Norrköping, Sweden
Founded: 2014
Category: C3
Riddarholmens Kammarkör
Conductor: Alexander Damsgaard
Sundbyberg, Sweden
Founded: 1992
Categories: GP3, GP5
PARTICIPANTS
181

PARTICIPANTS
Sönerna
Conductor: Martin Hellberg
Uppsala, Sweden
Founded: 2021
Categories: O4, O9
Boys Choir Lucerne (Seniors)
Conductor: Andreas Wiedmer
Luzern, Switzerland
Founded: 2011
Category: C3
Boys Choir Lucerne (Sus4)
Conductor: Andreas Wiedmer
Luzern, Switzerland
Founded: 2011
Category: C8
kleiner chor zug
Conductor: Christof Tschudi
Hünenberg, Switzerland
Founded: 2015
Category: O8
182

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
Male Voices of the Boys Choir Lucerne
Conductor: Andreas Wiedmer
Luzern, Switzerland
Founded: 2011
Category: C2
MIXED-UP A-Cappella Chor Olten
Conductor: Gitte Deubelbeiss
Aarburg, Switzerland
Founded: 1990
Festival
OYENGA Gospelchor am Münster Basel
Conductor: Oliver Rudin
Basel, Switzerland
Founded: 2005
Category: C8
Vokalensemble Zürich West
Conductor: Marco Amherd
Zürich, Switzerland
Founded: 2015
Categories: C3, C5
PARTICIPANTS
183

PARTICIPANTS
ARA
Conductor: Ananya Venkateswaran
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Founded: 2024
Category: O2
Vocal Sliders
Conductor: Charity Reyes
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Founded: 2022
Festival
Downey High School EPIC Jazz Choir Alum
Conductor: Corneliu Olariu
Downey, USA
Founded: 2001
Category: GP8
Festival Stage Choir
iSing Silicon Valley
Conductor: Jennah Delp Somers
Palo Alto, USA
Founded: 2013
Categories: GP2, GP6
184

Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
New Orange County Children’s Choir
Conductor: Ying-Chien Wang
Irvine, USA
Founded: 1989
Category: O2
North Jersey Homeschool Association
“Genesis” Chorale
Conductor: Beth Prins
Hawthorne, NJ, USA
Founded: 1994
Categories: O3, O10
Spring Children’s Choir
Conductor: Wenbo Deng
Pleasanton, California, USA
Founded: 2017
Category: O1
Stele
Conductor: Deah McReynolds
Tampa, USA
Founded: 2015
Category: O2
PARTICIPANTS
185

PARTICIPANTS
The Sunday Night Singers
Conductor: Michael McCullough
Palmdale, USA
Founded: 2005
Categories: O6, O7
Victor Voice Salon
Conductor: Victor Wei
Kansas City, Missouri, USA
Founded: 2015
Festival
Voci de Lumina
Conductor: Deah McReynolds
Tampa, USA
Founded: 2015
Festival
186

SING FOR GOLD
THE WORLD CHORAL CUP
Calella & Barcelona, Catalonia (Spain)
October 22-26, 2026
Open Competition
European Champions Competition
Grand Prix of Nations
Festival
SING-FOR-GOLD.COM
PARTICIPANTS
187

188

INFORMATION
189

IMPRINT
The official program book of the 6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025 was created under the auspices
of INTERKULTUR and the National Organizing Committee.
The suppliers and authors are personally responsible for
the contents of their articles.
INTERKULTUR is responsible for the accuracy of published
information based on the information the choirs provided.
Chief Editors
Joy Ran Tao (China)
Jelena Dannhauer (Germany)
ECG 2025 Aarhus Organizing Committee
Printing company
STEP PRINT POWER A/S - en del af Scandinavian Print Group A/S
Graphic Design
Ina Hennig (Germany)
Organizer
INTERKULTUR Management GmbH
Brüsseler Straße 1-3
60327 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Musikhuset
Skovgaardsgade 2 C
DK – 8000 Århus C
6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
INTERKULTUR
Ruhberg 1, 35463 Fernwald (Frankfurt/Main) Germany
Phone: +49 (0)6404 69749-25
Email: mail@europeanchoirgames.com
ECG2025.EU
190

PHOTO CREDITS
Cover: © Jonas Persson,
© Jonas Hoholt
Greetings
Page 8/9: © Jonas Persson
Organizers
Page 14/15: © Jonas Persson
About INTERKULTUR
Page 24/25: © Jonas Persson
Page 29: © Studi43
World Choir Council
Page 30/31: © Jonas Persson
Page 29: © Studi43
6 th European Choir Games &
Grand Prix of Nations Aarhus 2025
Page 38/39: © Jonas Persson
Page 41: © Anders Hede
Page 42: 1 © Adam Moerk,
2 © frame and work,
Science Museerne
Page 43: 1 © frame and work,
2 © Roar Paaske
Page 44: 1, 2 © Photopop,
3 © Roar Paaske
Page xx: 1, 3 © Francesa Dolnier,
2, 4 © frame and work
Page 47: © Malte Bülow
Photography
Page 48: © Studi43
Page 49: © Per Bille
Page 64: © Marinó Thorlacius
Page 70: © Laurids Juul Langballe
Page 71: 1 © Laurids Juul
Langballe, 2 © frame and work
Page 72: Aarhus Cathedral:
© City of Aarhus
Page 72: Bispetorv:
1 © frame and work,
2 © Francesca Dolnier
Page 73: Djurslands Bank Arena:
© Morten Rygaard
Page 73: Dokk1: © City of Aarhus
Page 74: Musikhuset Stages:
1 © City of Aarhus,
2 © Julian Weyer
Page 75: Skt. Lukas Kirke:
1 © Karsten Trochmann,
2 © City of Aarhus
Page 75: Salling ROOFTOP:
© City of Aarhus
Page 76: Vor Frue Kirke:
1 © City of Aarhus
Page 76: Langenæs Kirken:
© VisitAarhus
Events
Page 82/83: © Jonas Persson
Saturday, June 28, 2025
Page 86, 87: © Studi43
Sunday, June 29, 2025
Page 90, 91: © Studi43
Page 93: © Jonas Persson
Monday, June 30, 2025
Page 98: © Jonas Persson
Page 99: 1 © Jonas Persson,
2 © Studi43
Page 100: © Studi43
Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Page 106, 107, 108:
© Jonas Persson
Page 112: © Studi43
Thursday, July 3, 2025
Page 120: © Jonas Persson
Friday, July 4, 2025
Page 124: © Pieter du Plesses
Page 125, 128: © Jonas Persson
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Page 134: 1 © Jonas Persson,
2 © Pieter du Plesses
Page 135: © INTERKULTUR
Page 136: 1 © Thomas Dohn
2 © Per Bergmann
Page 138: 1 © Studi43,
2 © Melissa Godoy
Sunday, July 6, 2025
Page 144: 1 © Phil Didion,
2 © Clifford Turrell
Page 145: © Kevin Husted
Page 146: © Jonas Persson
Pahe 148, 149, 150: © Studi43
Participants
Page 152/153: © Jonas Persson
Information
Page 188/189: © Studi43
Page 10, 11, 12, 16, 20, 22, 23, 33,
44, 52-63, 94, 95, 101, 102, 103,
113, 129, 130, 131, 140, 141, 151:
All portraits were supplied by
the corresponding people either
privately or through their offices.
Page 92, 109, 110, 111, 116, 121,
126, 127, 137, 154-186:
The choir photos are from private
collections belonging to the choirs
themselves.
191

PROGRAM BOOK
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6 th EUROPEAN CHOIR GAMES and
GRAND PRIX OF NATIONS AARHUS 2025
INTERKULTUR
Ruhberg 1, 35463 Fernwald, Germany
Phone: +49 (0)6404 69749-25
Email: mail@europeanchoirgames.com
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