World Choir Singing Day

Today, peace, solidarity and understanding should come first. And these are the values of people who are united by music and who have joined together in a common effort. Every year, World Choir Singing Day is held in December.

Origins and history

World Choir Singing Day was founded in 1990 on the initiative of Albert Grau, a member of the International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM). The official proclamation took place during the 2nd World Symposium on Choral Music. Voices and music are being heard from all over the world, uniting in one important message: we need to promote peace, and it starts with each one of us. This message is all the more important because today’s world is full of conflict and rising fears. However, for centuries, singing has highlighted all that is positive, building trust and bringing people together. And by singing together they build the harmony that is so necessary, perhaps even essential.

First celebrated in local concerts, this holiday has become a worldwide phenomenon. Over the years, it has become a fixture on the calendar and is held annually on the second Sunday in December. During this day, it is remembered that singing connects all people, regardless of their origin, age or culture.

“It is time to show with greater force and emphasis that our choral family contributes through music to breaking down the artificial barriers that are the product of politics, different ideologies, religious differences and racial hatred that separate human beings. We must be able to show that MUSIC, the divine art, is more than a mere search for formal perfection and interpretative beauty; music should serve to celebrate the values of solidarity, peace and understanding,” was said at the founding of the day.

As the day is celebrated around the world

Thousands of events take place during World Choir Music Day, from small, modest performances to large, prestigious concerts featuring famous choirs. As a result, cultural diversity can be seen as folk music, African spirituals, Renaissance polyphony, modern music and many other genres across history are heard.

Why is choral singing so important to humans

Choral singing itself is beneficial to humans because, as studies have shown, it boosts health and psyche. In particular, it reduces stress hormones and in turn improves mood. Singing and breathing then gradually synchronise the heartbeat of all singers. It also builds community and friendship, as it is a social activity that brings all generations together. And, of course, it preserves cultural heritage by keeping folk songs alive.

World Choir Singing Day sends the message that we should sing for our future, for peace and for our planet.