Voices from different countries united at SAINT STEFAN 2026 in Budva.

The International Choir Festival & Competition “SAINT STEFAN” brought together talented choirs from across Europe for several days of music, competition, and unforgettable performances in Budva, Montenegro.

The stage welcomed choirs from North Macedonia, Romania, Cyprus, Poland, and Estonia, each presenting their own sound, style, and musical identity. From powerful mixed choirs to boys’, girls’, and female ensembles, the competition showed an impressive variety of voices and interpretations.

One of the biggest moments of the festival was the announcement of the competition results. The Grand Prix was awarded to City Mixed Choir BALTEPE from Tetovo, conducted by Jasmina Gjorgieska Karo. Female Choir PAULA from Estonia, conducted by Reelika Looring, won Second Place, while City Mixed Choir VARDAR from Skopje, also conducted by Jasmina Gjorgieska Karo, received Third Place.

Several special awards were also presented for outstanding performances. Female Choir DOMINA from Estonia, conducted by Aneli Kopel, received the award for Best Artistic Sound. Boys Choir SŁOWIKI LUBELSKIE from Poland, conducted by Irena Sołtan-Wąsik, was awarded Best Vocal Performance, while DO RE MI from Poland, also conducted by Irena Sołtan-Wąsik, received the Best Interpretation Award. JOYFUL VOICES from Romania, conducted by Gabar Tiberia Andreea, received the award for Best Choral Sound.

The competition brought strong performances, close musical encounters, and a real sense of excitement to the festival. Beyond the awards, the event created new connections between choirs, conductors, and singers, proving once again that choral music can unite different countries through one shared stage.

SAINT STEFAN ended with proud winners, memorable performances, and new international friendships — a celebration of voices, talent, and the power of music.