We are pleased to invite Children’s, Youth, and Adult Choral Groups to participate in the XI International Choir Festival and Competition “SINGING IN DURRES,” which will take place from June 18-22, 2025. The festival’s mission is to promote and present choral music from various countries, encourage cultural exchange, and offer participants the opportunity to form lasting friendships through music.
The festival will feature two sections: competitive (minimum of 5 choirs required) and non-competitive.
To apply, please send the following:
Completed application form
A recent photo of the choir and conductor
An audio recording (can be submitted via email or shared from your website)
Choirs must perform in at least two sections:
Obligatory Performance – Open air (12-15 minute program of your choice at several outdoor public locations)
Spiritual Music (8-14 minutes)
Pop or Folk Music (8-14 minutes)
By applying, choirs agree to respect the legal rights of the authors of the works they perform and grant the festival the right to use any materials recorded during the event.
Accommodation Information
Festival participants will be accommodated at the luxurious KOLAVERY Hotel Resort, which features an indoor swimming pool and private beach. The hotel offers the following accommodation options:
129 EUR for 3 nights (Half Board – 2 meals per day, open buffet) in triple rooms
154 EUR for 4 nights (Half Board – 2 meals per day, open buffet) in triple rooms at the 5* Bonita Luxury Hotel in Durres, featuring its own beach, an aqua park, and top-tier amenities. More details about the hotel can be found at Hotel Bonita Luxury
For those wishing to extend their stay at Bonita Luxury Hotel, the rate is 40 EUR per person per day (Half Board).
Included with accommodation:
24 participants – one free
Souvenirs and gifts for each group
Certificate of attendance
Welcome cocktail
Free parking
Festival promotion through press releases, social media, and printed materials
Note: An additional Albanian tourist tax of 1 EUR per person will be required upon arrival.
Program Information
Day 1
12:00 – 14:00: Arrival in Durres, hotel accommodation
19:00 – 21:00: Dinner at the hotel
21:00: Welcome reception with the festival organizers
Day 2
08:00 – 10:00: Breakfast
10:00 – 14:00: Durres sightseeing tour
17:00 – 19:30: Dinner at the hotel
20:00: Festival evening performance in the Catholic Church
Day 3
09:00 – 10:00: Breakfast
12:00 – 15:00: Choir competition performances
18:30 – 20:30: Dinner at the hotel
21:00: Festival evening – a cappella singing in the city
Day 4
09:00 – 10:00: Breakfast
10:00 – 14:00: Visit to Kruje
18:30 – 20:30: Dinner at the hotel
21:00: Party with all participants
Day 5
09:00 – 10:00: Breakfast
09:00 – 14:00: Departure
Transportation: The festival will organize transportation for groups arriving by plane, including transfers to and from Tirana Airport during the festival.
Excursions Information
Durres offers a rich cultural experience and beautiful landscapes for festival participants to enjoy during free time. Several excursions are included to explore the city’s history and natural beauty.
Beach Time: Relax on the stunning beaches of Durres.
Excursions:
Visit the historic city of Kruje, its monuments, and museums (entrance fee: 2 EUR).
Workshops: Participate in a dance workshop, learning traditional dances from various cultures.
Additionally, the city of Durres boasts several museums, theaters, and historic landmarks, including the ancient city wall (Durrës Castle) and the largest amphitheater in the Balkans.
