Thousands of people expected to attend Choral Festival in Cork 

THOUSANDS of singers and visitors are expected to arrive in Cork for the 69th International Choral Festival this May Bank Holiday weekend.

Cork will be hitting a high note from May 1-5 to celebrate the welcome return of its oldest festival, with thousands of singers from global and national choirs alongside thousands of visitors expected to enjoy an incredible programme of gala performances, national and international trophy competitions, fringe concerts, workshops, and free public performances in over 90 venues.

Highlights for opening-day, Wednesday May 1, include an opening gala performance by Cork School of Music [CSM] Symphony Orchestra and Fleischmann Choir, a performance from one of Europe’s most well-known choirs, The State Choir LATVIJA in Cork City Hall, and a premier performance of the 2024 Seán Ó Riada composition competition from the Chamber Choir Ireland.

Other highlights for Thursday night, May 2, include the popular Afternoons in the Atrium at the Clayton Hotel and the Cobh Fringe Festival, with choir performances in St Colman’s Cathedral, Christ Church, The Heritage Centre, Bandstand on the Promenade and several local schools.

The Marina Market will also play host to a live choir performance, one of the festivals latest performance additions, to be held on Saturday May 4.

Other exciting events during the five day festival will include the annual Aloys Fleischmann International Trophy competition, and a unique opportunity to hear some of the world’s top amateur choirs competing for one of Europe’s most prestigious choral prizes.

Ticket prices range from €11-€27.50 depending on the performance, with further information available at www.corkchoral.ie.

The Cork International Choral Festival is supported by the Arts Council, Fáilte Ireland, Cork City Council and Cork County Council, with the Irish Examiner, The Echo and Cork’s 96FM as media partners.