The 32nd Charles Wood Festival and Summer School
August 2025 - Plus Information and Upcoming Events
The 32nd Charles Wood Festival and Summer School 2025
The official dates and details for the 32nd Charles Wood Festival and Summer School will be announced soon - in the meantime here is some information worth checking out…
The Charles Wood International Song Competition 2025
A full day of world-class singing awaits as the Charles Wood International Song Competition returns to Armagh on Saturday 8th March 2025. Now in its 7th year, the competition continues to cement its place as a leading platform for young classical singers across the UK, Ireland, and beyond. Hosted in the stunning St. Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, the event offers audiences a chance to witness the stars of the future in an inspiring showcase of vocal artistry.
A major highlight of this year’s competition is the presence of internationally renowned soprano Danielle de Niese as guest judge. Her expertise and experience as both a singer and mentor make her an extraordinary addition to this year’s panel, where she will be joined by distinguished vocal coach Paul Farrington, celebrated Northern Irish mezzo-soprano Carolyn Dobbin and the Competition’s Patron, Dame Fionnuala Jay-O’Boyle DBE. Their combined knowledge and insight promise to make this year’s competition an unforgettable experience for competitors and audiences alike.
The competition is divided into two categories: the Junior Class (ages 18-21) and the Senior Class (ages 22-28), each featuring some of the brightest young talents in classical music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music lover or new to the world of song, the Charles Wood International Song Competition is an event not to be missed. The competition continues to champion the next generation of musicians, offering an inspiring day of performances that showcase the very best young vocalists. Tickets are just £5.00, available online or at the door. This is the perfect chance for young musicians to experience world-class singing up close. Come and be part of an unforgettable day of music, mentorship, and discovery in one of Northern Ireland’s most breathtaking venues.
At 2.30pm, the Junior Final will feature performances from Katharina Bierweiler, Sam Britner, Lewis Menzies, and Cassia Moore. These gifted singers, representing top music conservatoires in the UK and Ireland, will perform alongside pianist Gail Evans. Book Tickets Here
The Senior Final begins at 7.00pm, showcasing the exceptional talents of Ash Howard, Ellie Donald, Peter O’Reilly, Madeline Perring, and Jacq Herbots. These accomplished singers will be accompanied by pianist Ruth McGinley, ensuring a captivating evening of music. Book Tickets Here
The Song Competition Pass grants access to both Song Competition Finals (2.30pm and 7.00pm) as well as access to Danielle de Neise's Workshop following the Junior Final. Book An All Day Pass Here
Following the Junior Final, a special workshop will take place by Danielle de Neise, providing an invaluable opportunity for young singers to develop their skills through expert coaching, furthering the Festival’s mission to support and inspire young musicians. Book For The Workshop Here
Thanks to the generous support of Armagh Credit Union, the competition boasts substantial cash prizes, including a £1,000 award for the winner of the Senior Class. In addition to financial support, finalists will have the opportunity to win the Dame Felicity Lott Song Prize, awarded for the most engaging performance of a Charles Wood song. Beyond the prizes, the competition provides career-enhancing performance opportunities, making it a key stepping stone for young singers. We’re also indebted to the support and funding from Arts Council Northern Ireland Lottery Funding.
Join The Charles Wood Girls Choir For The 2025 Charles Wood Festival
Chris Gray to Direct The Charles Wood Girls’ Choir.
The Chair and Board are delighted to announce that Chris Gray, Director of Music at St John's College Cambridge, has accepted the role of Director of our Girls’ Choir for the 2025 and 2026 Festivals. Chris is one of the finest choir trainers in the UK, renowned for his work with young voices, and we look forward to his return to Armagh next year. Chris is originally from Bangor, Northern Ireland.
Applications are now open to join the Charles Wood Girls Choir for the 2025 Charles Wood Festival, taking place during the 9th-15th August 2025 in Armagh, Northern Ireland.
For more information and/or to apply visit our website HERE
Join The Charles Wood Singers For The 2025 Charles Wood Festival
The Charles Wood Singers is a unique choral course which takes place during the Charles Wood Festival of Music and Summer School in Armagh. Participants will have the opportunity to develop their vocal technique, musicianship and ensemble skills under the expert direction of our Artistic Director David Hill (Conductor, The Bach Choir), and our Associate Conductor Philip Scriven (Organist-in-Residence, Cranleigh School).
Join the Charles Wood Singers for the 2025 Charles Wood Festival, taking place during the 10th - 17th August 2025 in Armagh, Northern Ireland.
Applications are now open and are welcome from all those:
aged 18 or above on 10th August 2025
who are grade 8 standard or equivalent
with previous experience of choral singing
who can demonstrate sufficient levels of enthusiasm and skill, including sight-reading, to meet the challenge of an intensive week of musical study
For more information and/or to apply visit our website HERE
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