22 - 25 October 2026
Thursday 22 October, Millennium Forum, 7.30pm
The 2026 City of Derry International Choir Festival opens with a spectacular performance by the Festival Chorus and Ulster Orchestra under the baton of their newly appointed Chief Conductor, Anna Handler. One of the most exciting young conductors on the international stage, Handler has quickly earned acclaim for her electrifying musicianship, artistic vision and compelling presence on the podium. Joined by acclaimed guest soloists, the Festival Chorus and Ulster Orchestra present Beethoven’s dramatic Christ on the Mount of Olives alongside the exhilarating Symphony No. 7 in a powerful all-Beethoven programme that promises an unforgettable opening to the festival. FEATURING: Festival Chorus, Ulster Orchestra, Soloists
Buy now!Friday 23 October, Guildhall, 7.30pm
Grammy-nominated vocal ensemble Tenebrae brings its internationally acclaimed artistry to the Guildhall for an unforgettable evening of choral music. Renowned for its impeccable blend, expressive performances and innovative programming, the ensemble presents a programme spanning Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works, including music by Byrd, Mendelssohn, Barber, Poulenc and Frank Martin, alongside Ivo Antognini’s Dum aurora, Roderick Williams’ Ave verum corpus re-imagined and Jessica Ulusoy-Horsley’s striking Engelsmusik. Experience one of the world’s finest professional vocal ensembles live in the exceptional acoustic of the Guildhall.
Buy now!Friday 23 October, St. Columb's Cathedral, 10.00pm
Continue your festival journey into the late evening with an atmospheric concert in the stunning surroundings of St Columb’s Cathedral. The Apex Singers present exceptional a cappella singing, blending classical choral artistry with the warmth and storytelling of folk traditions. Their specially curated programme features well-loved and hidden gems from Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales. Through intricate harmonies and beautifully crafted arrangements, the ensemble breathes new life into timeless melodies. Winners of six Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards, three A Cappella Video Awards and the British Independent Film Festival Best Music Video award, they offer the perfect end to day two of the festival.
Buy now!Saturday 23 October, Guildhall, 7.30pm
Always a festival favourite and a sell-out event annually, the Oak Tree of Derry International Competition is the jewel in the crown of the City of Derry International Choir Festival. Experience the excitement as exceptional choirs from across Europe compete for the festival’s highest international honour, the coveted Oak Tree of Derry Trophy. Held in the iconic Guildhall, this prestigious competition showcases outstanding musicianship, diverse repertoire and thrilling performances, bringing together world-class choirs in a spectacular celebration of international choral excellence. Since the festival’s inception in 2013, previous winners have travelled from the Philippines, Ireland, Slovenia, Indonesia, Estonia, Wales and Latvia, cementing the competition’s reputation as one of Europe’s leading international choral contests. An esteemed international panel of adjudicators will evaluate performances of the highest calibre as choirs compete for the festival’s top prize. Early booking is strongly recommended.
Buy now!Sunday 25 October, Millennium Forum, 7.30pm
…and the winner is! Bringing the festival to a close this celebratory Gala Concert will feature performances from the visiting international choirs before the announcement of the competition results and presentation of the festival awards. Join us as we celebrate outstanding choral achievement and discover who will lift the coveted Oak Tree of Derry Trophy.
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