Kildare choir takes historic win at Festival of Songs in Czechia

Maynooth University Chamber Choir was announced as the overall winner of the 52nd edition of the Svátsky Písní Olomouc (Festival of Songs Olomouc).

Consisting of choirs from across Europe and across various age categories, the festival is the Czech Republic’s oldest and premiere choral competition. No Irish choir has ever won the MUNDI CANTANT award, which is for best overall choir at the festival.

The Kildare choir has now written itself into the history books, becoming the first Irish choir to achieve this honour, beating choirs from Slovakia, Czechia, Macedonia, Poland and Slovenia.

Adding to the accolades, the choir also secured wins in the Sacred Music category and the Youth Choir U26 category, performing newly commissioned works by Michael McGlynn (Tormán) and Eoin Conway (Nead na Lachan). 

The judges were deeply impressed with the choir’s performances, awarding them Most Convincing Interpretation of Contemporary Choral Music, Best Performance of a Czech Composition, and Most Inspiring Performance.

"It's a huge achievement for the choir. Czechia and this region of Europe has a rich history of choral music, so to win the Absolute Winner overall prize, and five others, including the best performance of a Czech piece is incredible," said Artistic Director of Maynooth University Chamber Choir, Dr Michael T Dawson.

The competition in Olomouc forms part of the choir’s tour of the Czech Republic. The choir has performed at the Irish Embassy in Prague and represented Maynooth University at a range of events. A concert in the Church of Our Lady Victorious and The Infant Jesus of Prague will conclude a successful year for MUCC.

Dr Dawson added that Maynooth University Chamber Choir would like to express its deepest gratitude to all who have supported them on their journey so far.

PICTURES: Hurling heaven as Kildare win Joe McDonagh Cup amid sensational scenes