Finding Our Voice on an International Stage

Written by: Yu Zichen (2A3, 2026)

On 17 July 2026, we took part in the 10th Singapore International Choral Festival (SICF) at Victoria Concert Hall, where we received a Silver Award in Category A2 (Equal Voices, 17 Years and Below).

The performance marked the culmination of nearly a year of preparation. For the competition, we presented three contrasting pieces: Kruhay by Beny Fruto Castillon, Yomosugara by Hideki Chihara and Daemon Irrepit Callidus by György Orbán.

Each piece challenged us in a different way. We had to work on our vocal precision, interpretation and coordination as an ensemble while learning how to bring out the character of each work. Over countless rehearsals, we gradually became more confident not only with the music, but also with one another.

Preparing for SICF required a great deal of perseverance and commitment. There were many details to refine, and progress did not always come quickly. Through the process, however, we learnt how important it was to listen closely to one another, respond to feedback and trust the people singing beside us.

Stepping onto the stage at Victoria Concert Hall was both exciting and nerve-racking. After spending so much time rehearsing, we finally had the chance to present what we had worked on to an audience and an international panel of adjudicators.

Receiving a final score of 77.70 and a Silver Award was meaningful to us. While we were only 1.3 marks away from the Gold threshold, the experience reminded us that our journey could not be measured by a score alone. What mattered just as much was how far we had come together as a choir.

Participating in SICF also gave us the opportunity to experience a wider world of choral music and to challenge ourselves against an international standard of performance. It helped us recognise both what we had achieved and where we could continue to grow.

Looking back, the competition was more than a single performance. It was the result of months of rehearsing, listening, adjusting and learning to work together as one ensemble. The Silver Award was a rewarding recognition of that effort, but the friendships, discipline and shared experiences we gained along the way were equally valuable.

We would like to thank our conductors, teachers and everyone who supported us throughout our preparation. This experience has given us greater confidence and motivation to keep improving, and we hope to continue growing together in the next stage of our choral journey.