2nd International Choral Conductors' Competition of Preveza.
Following the success of its first edition, the 2nd International Choral Conducting Competition returns to Preveza as part of the 43rd Preveza International Choral Festival, from July 8 to 10, 2025. The competition offers a remarkable opportunity for young conductors to showcase their talent and artistic approach by leading distinguished choirs before an international audience and a renowned jury.
Participants will be selected through a preliminary round and will have the chance to conduct two acclaimed ensembles: the Children's Section of the Choral Society "Armonia" of Preveza and the KGBL Chamber Choir of the National Conservatory of Slovenia. The competition is divided into two categories: A) Conductors of Mixed Adult Choirs, and B) Conductors of Children's Choirs.
The contestants will be evaluated by an international jury of eight prominent choral experts from Asia, Europe, and America. The evaluation will be based on both technical and artistic criteria, and the competition will offer significant prizes and special distinctions, including invitations for international collaborations.
The winner of the competition will be honored with the opportunity to conduct the renowned Taipei Philharmonic Chamber Choir in concerts held in Taiwan, as part of a special collaboration that highlights the international prestige of the competition.
Preveza once again becomes a hub of musical creativity and innovation, hosting a new generation of artists in a high-level competition that brings together musical education, cultural exchange, and international cooperation. Participation promises inspiration, artistic growth, and professional development for all young conductors aspiring to leave their mark on the global choral scene.
The KGBL Chamber Choir is a distinguished vocal ensemble from the
Conservatorium of Music and Ballet Ljubljana (Slovenia), conducted by
internationally renowned choral conductor and composer Ambrož Čopi. Comprising
around 40 young singers, the choir is dedicated to advancing vocal technique,
exploring a wide and challenging repertoire, and reaching the highest artistic
standards. It collaborates regularly with esteemed vocal coaches Edita Garčević
Koželj and Tatjana Vasle.
The choir's repertoire spans from Renaissance polyphony to contemporary works,
with a special emphasis on promoting new choral music. It has commissioned and
premiered numerous works by prominent composers, including Lojze Lebič, Tadeja
Vulc, Damijan Močnik, Črt Sojar-Voglar, Peter Šavli, Andrej Makor, and others,
positioning itself as a leading platform for young Slovenian composers.
The KGBL Chamber Choir has earned significant recognition both nationally and
internationally. It has received top prizes at major competitions, including the Grand
Prix in Moscow (2016), first prize at the national competition "Naša pesem" in Maribor
(2016), multiple awards in Tolosa, Spain (2017), and Cork, Ireland (2019). In 2023, it
was awarded two gold prizes and the "Choir of the World" title.
The choir has appeared at renowned festivals and concert venues across Europe
and Asia, with performances in Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, China, Taiwan, Italy,
Austria, France, Hungary, Malaysia, and Singapore. Notable appearances include
the MITO Festival (Italy), Taipei International Choral Festival (Taiwan), and Florilège
Vocal de Tours (France).
The KGBL Chamber Choir has released three acclaimed recordings: *Credo*,
*Timeless*, and *Ubi caritas et amor*. Through its artistic excellence and commitment to
innovation, the choir continues to inspire audiences and foster the next generation of
choral talent.
The Preveza Children's Choir "Armonia" was founded in 1983 by the Choral Society
"Armonia" of Preveza, and has since become one of the most significant centers for
musical education and cultural creativity in Greece. Comprising children aged 8 to
17, the choir serves as an incubator for musical training and artistic development,
actively contributing to the promotion of choral art.
"Armonia" has received numerous distinctions in both national and international
competitions, with participations and awards in countries such as Italy, Hungary,
Poland, Bulgaria, and more. The choir has collaborated with esteemed conductors
and composers, and its repertoire spans from Renaissance works to contemporary
compositions, with a special focus on modern Greek and international music for
children's choirs.
The Preveza Children's Choir "Armonia" is a cornerstone of the International Choral
Festival of Preveza and has played a decisive role in establishing it as one of the
most important choral music festivals in Europe. Through its consistent artistic
presence, the choir promotes values such as teamwork, discipline, expression, and
cultural exchange.
The choir is conducted by Anelia Stefanova, a conductor with extensive experience
in leading children's and youth choirs. With dedication and a strong artistic vision, the
Preveza Children's Choir "Armonia" continues to inspire both locally and
internationally, conveying its passion for music through every performance.
Founded in 1993, the Taipei Philharmonic Chamber Choir (TPCC) is a 30-voice
ensemble emerging from the prestigious 150-voice Taipei Philharmonic Chorus (est.
1972). Based in Taiwan, TPCC has become one of the most internationally active
and acclaimed choirs in Asia. Its members, selected for their exceptional vocal and
musical ability, represent a new generation of choral artistry in the region.
Over the past three decades, TPCC has performed on all continents, appearing in
over 40 major cities and participating in renowned international festivals including the
World Symposium on Choral Music (Sydney 1996, Minneapolis 2002, Türkiye 2023),
Festival Vancouver (2000, 2009), Oregon Bach Festival (2006), Polyfollia (France,
2013), and the Next Wave Festival (New York, 2017). In 2016, the choir was honored
to perform at the Vatican during the Canonization Mass of Mother Teresa.
TPCC's repertoire spans from Renaissance to contemporary music, with a special
emphasis on Asian and Taiwanese choral literature. Since its founding, the ensemble
has premiered over 200 new works from local and international composers. Its
recordings have consistently received critical acclaim, winning multiple "Golden
Melody Awards" in Taiwan, including Best Album and Best Vocal Performance.
The choir is under the direction of Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku, an esteemed conductor
and educator, who also serves as Music Director of the Taipei Philharmonic Chorus
and the Taipei International Choral Festival. Artistic direction is provided by the
choir's founder, Professor Dirk DuHei. TPCC frequently collaborates with prominent
guest conductors such as Helmuth Rilling, María Guinand, André Thomas, and
Ambrož Čopi.
Renowned for its musical precision, emotional depth, and artistic versatility, TPCC
continues to elevate Taiwanese choral music on the global stage.
The competition is open for choral conductors born after 6th July 1990.
Competition is organized in two categories: Each conductor can apply for one or both Categories.
Official language of the competition is English. The competition is open to a public audience (except for the afternoon rehearsal with the choir for the final concert). Competitors cannot attend the round in the hall if they are competing.
Deadline for application: April 25th, 2025.
Required documents:
The jury will consist of 8 esteemed members, choral music experts from Greece and abroad.
Every member of the jury will evaluate the conductor with a numerical estimate of up to 100 points in each round. Considered when evaluating:
Each conductor will have a chance to speak with the jury members after the competition about their presentations and receive suggestions for their future work.
The points from the 1st and 2nd rounds shall be added together. The top three candidates will participate in the 3rd round (Finals).
The performance in the finals will be evaluated as follows:
The names of the participants for the 3rd round will be announced two hours after the 2nd round ends. The final results will be announced after the Opening Ceremony of the International Choral Festival of Preveza on Thursday, July 10th, 2025.
The decisions of the jury are final. Appeals are not possible.
The results will be publicly announced after the Opening Ceremony on Thursday, July 10th, 2025.
The decisions of the jury are final. Appeals are not possible.
TUESDAY, July 8th, 2025
WEDNESDAY, July 9th, 2025
THURSDAY, July 10th, 2025
THURSDAY, July 10th, 2025 - 9:00 p.m.
Opening Ceremony of the International Choral Festival of Preveza & Prize Giving Ceremony for Choral Conductors Competition.
The organizer holds the right to make changes in the schedule according to the number of participants. Any changes will be communicated to participants.
All participants will receive a diploma of participation.
The jury evaluates competitors with points from 0 to 80. The assembly evaluates from 0 to 20 points. The final round does not carry over previous scores.
The jury may award the following special recognitions:
The jury may propose additional prizes.
The KGBL Chamber Choir will present a special practical prize for the most charismatic choral conductor at the Final Concert.
Taipei Philharmonic Chamber Choir (TPCC) is a 30-voice chamber choir from Taiwan. Established in 1993 out of the 150-voice Taipei Philharmonic Chorus (founded in 1972), TPCC has performed internationally in over 40 cities across all continents.
The choir has participated in various International Choral Festivals, such as the International Chamber Choir Festival in Latvia (1995), the 4th World Symposium on Choral Music in Sydney, Australia (1996), Festival Vancouver (2000 & 2009), Asia-South-Pacific Symposium on Choral Music in Singapore (2001), the 6th World Symposium on Choral Music in Minneapolis/St. Paul, U.S.A. (2002), Oregon Bach Festival in Eugene, U.S.A. (2006), Zempléni Fesztivál and Cantemus Festival in Hungary (2007 & 2014), ACDA National Convention in Chicago (2011), Polyfollia Festival in Saint Lo, France (2013), Melbourne Festival in Australia and the Next Wave Festival in New York, U.S.A. (2017), among others.
In 2016, TPCC performed in the “Holy Mass and Canonization of Blessed Mother Theresa of Calcutta” in Vatican. In 2023, TPCC was one of 10 international choirs featured in the World Symposium on Choral Music in Türkiye.
The current Music Director of TPCC is Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku, with Professor Dirk DuHei as the Artistic Director. The choir frequently collaborates with internationally renowned conductors such as Helmuth Rilling, Maria Guinand, Gábor Hollerung, Jonathan Velasco, Theodora Pavlovitch, Fred Sjöberg, André Thomas, Jānis Liepiņš, Alexander Solovyev, and Ambrož Čopi.
TPCC's repertoire spans from renaissance to contemporary, including European classics, Asian compositions, and Taiwanese and Chinese heritage music. Since 1993, TPCC has commissioned and premiered over 200 new works. Their albums have been consistently nominated for the “Golden Melody Award,” winning “Best Album” and “Best Singing Performance” awards multiple times.
Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku is the Music Director of Taipei Philharmonic Chorus and TPCC, as well as the Taipei International Choral Festival and Competition. He is an active conductor of choirs, orchestras, operas, musical theaters, and pop concerts. He has led performances, masterclasses, and lectures in over 20 countries and worked as Chorus Master for more than 50 operatic and choral-symphonic productions with the National Symphony Orchestra, National Taiwan Symphony Orchestra, and National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts.
Additionally, Dr. Ku has served as an adjudicator in international competitions such as the World Choir Games, World Choral Festival, Bali International Choral Competition, Singapore International Choral Competition, Penabur International Choir Festival, and Busan Choral Festival and Competition. He holds a D.M.A. from the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and a master's degree from Temple University.
Taipei Philharmonic Chamber Choir (TPCC) is a 30-voice chamber choir from Taiwan. Established in 1993 out of the 150-voice Taipei Philharmonic Chorus (founded in 1972), TPCC has performed internationally in over 40 cities across all continents.
The choir has participated in various International Choral Festivals, such as the International Chamber Choir Festival in Latvia (1995), the 4th World Symposium on Choral Music in Sydney, Australia (1996), Festival Vancouver (2000 & 2009), Asia-South-Pacific Symposium on Choral Music in Singapore (2001), the 6th World Symposium on Choral Music in Minneapolis/St. Paul, U.S.A. (2002), Oregon Bach Festival in Eugene, U.S.A. (2006), Zempléni Fesztivál and Cantemus Festival in Hungary (2007 & 2014), ACDA National Convention in Chicago (2011), Polyfollia Festival in Saint Lo, France (2013), Melbourne Festival in Australia and the Next Wave Festival in New York, U.S.A. (2017), among others.
In 2016, TPCC performed in the “Holy Mass and Canonization of Blessed Mother Theresa of Calcutta” in Vatican. In 2023, TPCC was one of 10 international choirs featured in the World Symposium on Choral Music in Türkiye.
The current Music Director of TPCC is Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku, with Professor Dirk DuHei as the Artistic Director. The choir frequently collaborates with internationally renowned conductors such as Helmuth Rilling, Maria Guinand, Gábor Hollerung, Jonathan Velasco, Theodora Pavlovitch, Fred Sjöberg, André Thomas, Jānis Liepiņš, Alexander Solovyev, and Ambrož Čopi.
TPCC's repertoire spans from renaissance to contemporary, including European classics, Asian compositions, and Taiwanese and Chinese heritage music. Since 1993, TPCC has commissioned and premiered over 200 new works. Their albums have been consistently nominated for the “Golden Melody Award,” winning “Best Album” and “Best Singing Performance” awards multiple times.
Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku is the Music Director of Taipei Philharmonic Chorus and TPCC, as well as the Taipei International Choral Festival and Competition. He is an active conductor of choirs, orchestras, operas, musical theaters, and pop concerts. He has led performances, masterclasses, and lectures in over 20 countries and worked as Chorus Master for more than 50 operatic and choral-symphonic productions with the National Symphony Orchestra, National Taiwan Symphony Orchestra, and National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts.
Additionally, Dr. Ku has served as an adjudicator in international competitions such as the World Choir Games, World Choral Festival, Bali International Choral Competition, Singapore International Choral Competition, Penabur International Choir Festival, and Busan Choral Festival and Competition. He holds a D.M.A. from the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and a master's degree from Temple University.
Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Rehearsal with KGBL Chamber Choir (conductor Ambrož Čopi)
Renaissance music - Max. 8 participants
Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.
Romantic music - Max. 8 participants
Wednesday, July 9th, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.
Each participant has 70 minutes to prepare two obligatory compositions and two additional compositions drawn by lot.
Wednesday, July 9th, 2025, at 8:30 p.m.
Public concert with KGBL Chamber Choir. Each participant performs the obligatory composition and three rehearsed compositions.
Taipei Philharmonic Chamber Choir (TPCC) is a 30-voice chamber choir from Taiwan. Established in 1993 out of the 150-voice Taipei Philharmonic Chorus (founded in 1972), TPCC has performed internationally in over 40 cities across all continents.
The choir has participated in various International Choral Festivals, such as the International Chamber Choir Festival in Latvia (1995), the 4th World Symposium on Choral Music in Sydney, Australia (1996), Festival Vancouver (2000 & 2009), Asia-South-Pacific Symposium on Choral Music in Singapore (2001), the 6th World Symposium on Choral Music in Minneapolis/St. Paul, U.S.A. (2002), Oregon Bach Festival in Eugene, U.S.A. (2006), Zempléni Fesztivál and Cantemus Festival in Hungary (2007 & 2014), ACDA National Convention in Chicago (2011), Polyfollia Festival in Saint Lo, France (2013), Melbourne Festival in Australia and the Next Wave Festival in New York, U.S.A. (2017), among others.
In 2016, TPCC performed in the “Holy Mass and Canonization of Blessed Mother Theresa of Calcutta” in Vatican. In 2023, TPCC was one of 10 international choirs featured in the World Symposium on Choral Music in Türkiye.
The current Music Director of TPCC is Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku, with Professor Dirk DuHei as the Artistic Director. The choir frequently collaborates with internationally renowned conductors such as Helmuth Rilling, Maria Guinand, Gábor Hollerung, Jonathan Velasco, Theodora Pavlovitch, Fred Sjöberg, André Thomas, Jānis Liepiņš, Alexander Solovyev, and Ambrož Čopi.
TPCC's repertoire spans from renaissance to contemporary, including European classics, Asian compositions, and Taiwanese and Chinese heritage music. Since 1993, TPCC has commissioned and premiered over 200 new works. Their albums have been consistently nominated for the “Golden Melody Award,” winning “Best Album” and “Best Singing Performance” awards multiple times.
Dr. Yu-Chung Johnny Ku is the Music Director of Taipei Philharmonic Chorus and TPCC, as well as the Taipei International Choral Festival and Competition. He is an active conductor of choirs, orchestras, operas, musical theaters, and pop concerts. He has led performances, masterclasses, and lectures in over 20 countries and worked as Chorus Master for more than 50 operatic and choral-symphonic productions with the National Symphony Orchestra, National Taiwan Symphony Orchestra, and National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts.
Additionally, Dr. Ku has served as an adjudicator in international competitions such as the World Choir Games, World Choral Festival, Bali International Choral Competition, Singapore International Choral Competition, Penabur International Choir Festival, and Busan Choral Festival and Competition. He holds a D.M.A. from the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and a master's degree from Temple University.
The Conservatorium of Music and Ballet Ljubljana Chamber Choir (KGBL Chamber Choir) led by Ambrož Čopi consists of about 40 singers who strive to enhance their vocal technique, perform a demanding range of choral music, and achieve high performance standards. The choir collaborates with vocal educators Edita Garčević Koželj and Tatjana Vasle and embraces a wide repertoire from Renaissance to contemporary music.
The KGBL Chamber Choir has commissioned and performed works by composers such as Lojze Lebič, Tadeja Vulc, Damijan Močnik, Črt Sojar-Voglar, Peter Šavli, and Andrej Makor. It has won prestigious awards, including first place in Cork International Choral Competition (Ireland, 2019) and the "Choir of the World" award in 2023. The choir has toured internationally, performing in Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, China, Italy, Austria, Hungary, France, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Rehearsal with ‘Armonia’ Children's Choir of Preveza (conductor Aneliya Hristova Stefanova)
Founded in 1983, Armonia Children’s Choir of Preveza has won multiple awards in international competitions across Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Switzerland, Hungary, and Poland. It was twice recognized as the best Greek children’s choir at the International Choral Festival of Athens and has participated in festivals across Europe and Russia.
In October 2023, it won the gold medal and 1st place at the 18th International "Gaude Cantem" Competition in Poland. In 2024, it was selected for the Eurochestries International Festival in France, where it collaborated with youth orchestras and performed 10 concerts showcasing Greek repertoire.
Application fee: 100 EUR (non-refundable), paid upon application.
Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are covered by participants.
The organizer is not responsible for accidents, losses, or theft. The official language of the competition is English.