New Zealand Youth Choir Crowned “Choir of the World” at Llangollen with Electrifying 10-Minute Set
LLANGOLLEN, WALES – July 13, 2025 – The New Zealand Youth Choir (NZYC) has once again captured the coveted “Choir of the World” title at the prestigious Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, triumphing with a dazzling 10-minute performance that left adjudicators and audiences spellbound. This monumental win marks the second major international victory for the choir in as many weeks, hot on the heels of their Grand Prix of Nations win at the European Choir Games in Denmark.
The exhilarating finale saw the mixed choir, comprised of 50 talented young singers aged 18-25, take to the stage and deliver a performance described as “the true spirit of Aotearoa” by judges. While the exact set list for the winning 10-minute slot is highly anticipated, the choir’s repertoire throughout their international tour has showcased a unique and compelling blend of traditional Western European choral works, dynamic Māori waiata and kapa haka, and vibrant songs from the Pacific. This “magic mix,” as it was previously lauded, proved to be their winning formula.
Watch the video here: https://www.facebook.com/nzyouthchoir/videos/744279164639546
The announcement of their victory, met with jubilant celebrations and an impromptu haka from the New Zealanders, saw them proudly lift the esteemed Pavarotti Trophy, presented by Nicoletta Mantovani, widow of the legendary Luciano Pavarotti.
Adding to the triumph, NZYC’s esteemed director, David Squire, was also honoured with the “Most Inspiring Conductor” award. Squire, who is stepping down from his role after this remarkable tour, expressed his immense pride in his singers, noting how thrilled he was that they “peaked at the moment they needed to.”
Choirs Aotearoa NZ Chief Executive Arne Herrmann, who has been travelling with the choir, highlighted the significance of their win for New Zealand. “For us, coming from the other side of the world, representing our beautiful country and the people of Aotearoa… this win is just unbelievable,” he stated.
The New Zealand Youth Choir previously claimed the “Choir of the World” title in 1999, making this 2025 victory a significant return to the top for the renowned ensemble. Their journey through Europe, which included a triumphant stop in Denmark before arriving in Wales, has solidified their reputation as a global force in choral music, leaving an indelible mark on the international stage with their powerful performances and unique cultural expression.
