5,000 singers to exercise vocal chords at festival in Cork

More than 5,000 singers will participate in the Cork International Choral Festival’s programme on the May public holiday weekend.

Details of the line-up were announced last night and include appearances by top Irish and international choirs.

It will kick of with an opening gala concert on April 29 with the renowned vocal ensemble Madrigal 75 presenting Music of The Baroque, accompanied by the Cork Baroque Orchestra. The performance will include works by Handel, Telemann, Purcell, and Monteverdi along with Vivaldi’s Gloria.

The following night will see one of Europe’s finest vocal ensembles, Rajaton, also at City Hall.

Music lovers will be spoilt for choice on the Friday when Chamber Choir Ireland is in concert at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral at 7.30pm while three hours later the Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne will host Evocations concert.

The Fleischmann International Trophy Competition will take pride of place on May 2 at the International Fleischmann Gala in City Hall. Choirs will travel from Finland, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Britain, Poland, Sweden, Estonia and Canada.

Festival manager Sinéad Dunphy said: “As it grows and improves each year we hope our festival can continue to be an important part of the great cultural community that is helping city and county become a real destination for many to visit and enjoy.”

Tickets are available through www.corkchoral.ie, by contacting 021 450 1673, or at the festival box office at The Everyman, MacCurtain Street.

There will be performances in over 80 venues in Cork city and county.