The International Federation for Choral Music sponsors this project in cooperation with a national organization, institution, or properly constituted committee in a host country. Whether world or regional, it is a meeting of the world’s most prestigious choral conductors and choirs.
Events of global proportion
The World Symposium on Choral Music is a one-week event organized every three years, with Regional symposia organized in alternate years. They occur in a prominent and attractive city that has the facilities, financial support and managerial structure to successfully plan and administer a major international or regional event. A local organizing committee works in collaboration with the Executive Committee of IFCM. World and Regional Symposia promote artistic excellence, cooperation and exchange, by bringing together the finest choirs and choral leaders for performances, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and choral reading sessions.
An event important to the Choral Art
The impact of the World and Regional Symposia on participating singers and conductors is significant. Past experience has shown that choir singers are immeasurably enriched through the sharing of music indigenous to their own country and by learning about music from other areas of the world. Conductors who attend, share a similar experience in that they have the opportunity to improve their skills by working with some of the most renowned conductor/teachers. This has an influence on what happens in making music with their own choirs in their respective countries. In addition, hearing repertoire sung by some of the finest choirs from throughout the world, conductors at Symposia are challenged to strive for higher levels of artistry.
An event that makes an important contribution to the organizing city, region or country
The cultural, political, and economic impact of the World Symposia on the host city can be substantial. Conservatively speaking, the city becomes a world or regional cultural focal point not unlike that of a sports event such as the Olympics and Pan American Games. Wide media coverage is virtually assured given the nature of the event. The potential economic impact is considerable since the event takes place during high tourist season.
WSCM IN THE WORLD
The International Federation for Choral Music has held 11 symposia in 14 world-class cities over the past 25 years.
The WSCM promotes artistic excellence, cooperation, and exchange by bringing together the finest choirs and choral leaders for performances, seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and choral reading sessions.
Reimagining the Future: The Theme!
The theme of WSCM 2026, Reimagining the Future encourages submissions of programs or presentation proposals that align with the richness of as many singing traditions as possible from across the globe. Reimagining the Future invites exploration and celebration of our choral landscape. It looks at the present (what has changed or is changing) but also to the future (what might/could be changed).
WSCM 2026: The Logo!
The WSCM 2026 logo reflects Macau’s iconic lotus, encircled by vibrant colors symbolizing diversity and unity. Its upward flow embodies growth and aspiration — a perfect image of “Grow your network, Grow your voice, Grow your future.”
Choirs and Vocal Ensembles, and Presenters: Apply Now!
How to Apply:
All application materials must be submitted via email to wscm2026@ifcm.net.
Deadline: 15 October 2025.
IFCM International Online Cafes are open to everyone! Recordings are available to IFCM members only. Since the first online meeting in 2023, IFCM has invited prestigious choral leaders, conductors and composers, from all over the world: Maria Guinand (Venezuela), Eric Banks (USA), Michael Ostrzyga (Germany), Tracy Wong (Malaysia/Canada), Luz Helena Peñaranda (Colombia), Joel Magus P. Navarro (Philippines), Ana María Raga (Venezuela), Carmen Acevedo (Puerto Rico), Jurģis Cābulis (Latvia), Lim Ai Hooi (Singap
Read moreOur focus at the moment is to unite the choral calendars of international choral organisations. Meanwhile please consult the calendar of choral events published by the European Choral Association - Europa Cantat here.
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