Choirs from all across the world will come together this June for the London International A Cappella Choral Competition (LIACC), taking place at St John’s Smith Square (SJSS). In total 16 choirs from 11 countries will compete for the top prize of GBP3,000 (€3,400) and a concert appearance at SJSS.
In 2017 the event, which is now in its third edition, will celebrate the music of Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, with each of the competing choirs performing a selection of his works alongside pieces of their own choice.
‘It is a thrill to welcome so many wonderful ensembles from all over the globe, and to hear them in close proximity, both in concert and in competition,’ commented LIACC chair Peter Phillips, who added that Pärt ‘has become a central figure in our understanding of contemporary a cappella composition.’ Phillips is also the founder and director of Tallis Scholars, who will perform as part of the competition on 30 June.
Added SJSS director Richard Hearson: ‘The combination of music from the great English renaissance tradition, the music of Arvo Pärt and the free choices of the individual choirs promises a rich and thrilling variety throughout the week. The opportunity to hear so many choirs from such diverse backgrounds come together for one event is without precedent.’
LIACC runs from 26 June – 1 July. The 16 competing choirs are:
Arcadia Chamber Choir – Colombia
Cantus Ensemble, The – UK
Copenhagen Chamber Choir CAMERATA – Denmark
Dysonans Chamber Choir – Poland
Ensamble Oltremontani – Chile
Fisher Consort, The – UK
Haarlem Voices – The Netherlands
Iken Scholars – UK
Istvanffy Kamarakorus – Hungary
JINGGASWARA – Indonesia
Octet Cantabile – India
Ole Bull Kammerkor – Norway
Renaissance Singers, The – UK
Schola Cantorum of The Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School – UK
Southern Spirit Singers – UK
