The City of Derry International Choir Festival is set to welcome the world back to the North West this October, as ten outstanding international ensembles – including eight competing choirs and two special visiting choirs – prepare to transform the region into a vibrant celebration of choral music.

At the heart of the festival is the prestigious International Competition, where eight elite choirs from across Europe will compete for the renowned Oak Tree of Derry Trophy. Representing Germany, France, Sweden, Estonia, and Ireland, this year’s line-up showcases an exciting mix of established ensembles and emerging voices, each bringing their own unique sound, style, and cultural identity to the stage.

Alongside the competition, two visiting choirs will join the programme in a non-competitive capacity, adding further richness to the festival’s global offering and giving audiences and participants the chance to experience a diverse range of choral traditions from around the world.

But the festival is about far more than competition. Across four days, the North West becomes a true “City of Song”, with a dynamic programme that brings together international, national, community, and school choirs in a shared celebration of music-making. From gala concerts and major performances to informal pop-up moments, choral trails, and large-scale workshops, the festival creates opportunities for connection, collaboration, and unforgettable musical experiences across Derry, Strabane, Letterkenny and the wider region.

For choirs considering taking part, this is a unique opportunity to perform alongside world-class ensembles, connect with other singers, and be part of an internationally recognised festival that continues to grow in scale and reputation each year.

Be Part of It

Entries for national and school choirs are open now, with applications closing at the end of May 2026. Whether you’re looking to compete or take part in the festival’s non-competitive performances and community events, there is a place for choirs of all types and levels to get involved.

Taking place from 22 – 25 October 2026, the festival promises another powerful celebration of choral music – bringing global voices together in one city, and inviting choirs from across the UK and Ireland to be part of something truly special.