Tickets are now on sale for an epic programme of evening concerts. Kicking off on Wednesday 22 October, audiences can expect a dramatic and moving evening with A Night at the Opera. Featuring the Ulster Orchestra, the Festival Chorus, and soloists from The Irish National Opera, the concert at the Millennium Forum is poised to deliver soaring vocals and stirring emotion.
The vocal fireworks continue on Thursday 23 October, as acclaimed UK ensemble The Marian Consort takes centre stage with a stunning programme that bridges the elegance of the Baroque with the daring spirit of contemporary choral music. Renowned for their clarity, precision, and expressive depth, the ensemble will guide audiences through a rich tapestry of sound—juxtaposing the intricate Baroque beauty of Schutz and Bach with bold, thought-provoking works by contemporary composer David Fennessy. It promises to be an evening of vocal brilliance that both honours tradition and redefines it.
Friday 24 October flips the script with a high-octane, body-powered performance by The Humanophones, a seven-piece vocal and percussive powerhouse from France. Their infectious fusion of jazz, funk, soul, and global rhythms—created using nothing but their voices and bodies—will be amplified by a specially formed Festival Youth Chorus featuring students from 10 schools across Derry, Strabane, and Donegal.
And then for a moment of reflection, Friday evening will also offer a luminous late-night concert in the sublime setting of St Eugene’s Cathedral. Local favourites Codetta will join forces with New Dublin Voices in a programme of contemporary and sacred works. Both choirs mark milestone anniversaries in 2025—Codetta celebrating 25 years and New Dublin Voices marking 20.
The crescendo builds towards Saturday 25 October, as the Guildhall hosts the festival’s crown jewel: the International Competition. Five elite choirs from four countries will battle for the prestigious title, the Oak Tree of Derry Trophy, and a £2000 grand prize.
The festival concludes on Sunday 26 October with a grand finale showcase featuring performances from all international competitors, bringing this choral celebration to a rousing close with the nail-biting announcement of the prize-winning choir.
Dónal Doherty, Artistic Director of the Choir Festival, commented, “I'm particularly excited by the variety of this year's festival programme. Anyone who loves singing or is curious about ways in which the human voice can be used is in for a real treat. Looking at the programme, I can't pick a favourite - it's all going to be wonderful. It's a real privilege to showcase such a high-quality event in our beautiful city. I'd encourage everyone to book early, as I expect many events to sell out quickly - you won't want to miss out on what is a guaranteed feast of great music.”
Ciaran Scullion, Head of Music and Opera, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, commented, “The Arts Council of Northern Ireland is proud to support the City of Derry International Choir Festival, thanks to game-changing funding from The National Lottery. This festival is truly international in scope and is an annual highlight in NI’s cultural calendar. The festival brings people and communities from all over the world together to celebrate choral music and helps to ensure that more people from all backgrounds can enjoy wonderful arts experiences. Congratulations to the team on curating another extraordinary programme for 2025, and I would encourage everyone to go along to experience this fantastic festival!”
More programme announcements are expected in the coming weeks. To stay tuned, visit derrychoirfest.com or follow the Festival on social media.
