WorldFestivalAssociation

INVITATION

We are honored to invite choirs and vocal ensembles from around the world to participate in the InCanto Mediterraneo International Choral Festival, taking place from 6th to 12th July 2025 at the historic Cittadella Fortificata – Castello di Milazzo, Sicily.
Organized by the “Cantica Nova” Choral Association under the artistic direction of Francesco Saverio Messina, the festival celebrates cultural diversity, musical excellence, and international friendship. Since 2009, InCanto Mediterraneo has welcomed over 60 choirs from across the globe, providing a unique platform for artistic expression, cultural exchange, and unforgettable performances in the beautiful setting of Sicily.
Participants will have the opportunity to perform in both competitive and non-competitive sections, showcasing sacred music, choral compositions, and varied repertoires while enjoying guided excursions, cultural activities, and the rich Sicilian heritage.
We warmly welcome all non-professional choirs and vocal ensembles to join us for this exceptional celebration of music, culture, and friendship.

PARTICIPATION INFORMATION
Eligibility: Open to non-professional choirs and vocal ensembles.
Sections:
Exhibition Section (Non-Competitive) – Performances on 6th and 8th July. Choirs must present a free program of at least three pieces spanning different periods, styles, and genres, with a performance duration of 15-20 minutes. Application requirements include a video recording from the past 12 months, choir and conductor curricula, a performance program, and photographs of the choir and conductor.

Competition Section:
Sacred Music Competition (10th July) – Requires a 15-20 minute a cappella program of sacred music, spanning at least three styles or genres from a provided list (Gregorian, Byzantine, Baroque, etc.).

InCanto Mediterraneo Trophy Competition (11th-12th July) – Open to Categories A (mixed/male/female-voice choirs), B (youth choirs), and C (children’s choirs). Choirs perform two programs of 15-20 minutes each over two days, with varied repertoire requirements, including a mandatory piece by a contemporary Italian composer.

Rules: No repetition of pieces between sections. Performances are judged on technical, vocal, and stylistic quality. Prizes include participation certificates, monetary awards for category winners, and the prestigious “InCanto Mediterraneo” Trophy. Applications, including all required documentation, must be submitted by 11 April 2025, with decisions communicated by 25 April 2025. Registration fees vary depending on participation scope.

ACCOMMODATION INFORMATION
While there is no reimbursement of costs for participating choirs, the festival organizers offer a variety of accommodation and catering options to meet different needs. Choirs should liaise directly with the festival’s accommodation services to ensure a comfortable stay during the event.

PROGRAM INFORMATION
The festival program offers a blend of non-competitive and competitive events:

6th-8th July: Exhibition Section – Non-competitive performances.
10th July: Sacred Music Competition – a cappella performances judged by an expert jury.
11th-12th July: InCanto Mediterraneo Trophy Competition – performances judged in front of an international panel.

The awards ceremony will take place on 12th July 2025, recognizing outstanding performances across all sections.

For further details or to submit applications, participants should contact the festival organizers, adhering to deadlines and submission guidelines.

EXCURSIONS INFORMATION
Participants can enjoy guided excursions to explore the historic and scenic wonders of Milazzo and its surrounding areas, offering choirs a chance to appreciate Sicilian culture and heritage. Specific details about available excursions will be provided upon registration confirmation.