Cornwall Youth Choir achieved stunning results at the Interkultur International Choir Competition held in Kingston-upon-Hull.

Their results included two gold diplomas, one for winners in the mixed choir category and the second for pop, gospel and jazz category. In addition, a unique and special award was made in recognition of the contribution the choir made to raise awareness of environmental issues through choral art.

This accolade is particularly impressive as it is the  first choral competition that the Cornwall Youth Choir (CYC) have competed in other than the Cornwall music festival this March and is the first time this international competition has been hosted in the UK. 

There was a total of 27 choirs from 10 nations represented. CYC is an inclusive choir and consists of singers who come from across the county of Cornwall and include young people aged 13 to 18 along with supporting alumni.

Most noteworthy is that despite times of economic challenge the fundraising for this event was remarkably achieved by the singers themselves along with parent volunteers and also invaluable support with rehearsals and admin from ASONE Music Hub. Councils and companies from within the county were also generous donators.

Choir director Angela Renshaw said: “We’ve come away from this competition a different choir. What an experience! Total joy, exhilarating to perform and make new choir friends from around the world.” 

Competing with international choirs not only enabled a unique experience but gave the CYC an opportunity to raise their overall standard, lift expectation and aspiration within the choir and inspire future development. The choir is now looking to develop further with more opportunities, celebrating its achievements and launching Cornwall’s youth choir to a level not previously achieved.