Festival of music, dance and peace celebrates by launching on International Day of Peace, 21st September
Over 4,000 dance, choral and instrumental artistes from around the world perform and compete at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod each year. Prestigious awards in 2020 include the world renowned Choir of the World and Dance Champions of the World with new award categories also being launched this year.
Artistic Director of the International Eisteddfod, Dr Edward-Rhys Harry said: “It is always important for the festival to encourage and promote the message of peace throughout the week, so we are delighted to launch our competitions on International Day of Peace. It truly is a unique week where lifelong friendships are made and Wales welcomes the world to our beautiful home in Llangollen. The arts has always been an influential means to bring people of all nationalities together and we have been showcasing outstanding talent now for over 70 years.”
Group competitions and non-competitive applications open on Saturday 21st September to mark International Day of Peace, a message which is at the heart of the festival. The Eisteddfod began in 1947 with a vision that the ancient Welsh eisteddfod tradition could provide a means of healing the wounds of the Second World War and help to promote lasting peace between nations through music, folklore and dance, a message which is still as relevant today as it was then.
The International Eisteddfod will be introducing a number of new competitions to the 2020 festival including Show Choirs, Contemporary Dance Groups and Musical Composition. Groups have until Friday 29th November to apply.
Dr Edward-Rhys Harry added: “The International Eisteddfod is a truly unique experience, offering the most diverse and stunning collection of cultural performances. Our new competition categories are exciting new additions which will showcase amazing new talent from around the world. This is the first time the festival will be inviting Show Choirs, Contemporary Dance and Musical Composition entries, enabling us to support and champion the evolution of the arts.”
Musical Composition, one of the new features for 2020 will offer two exciting opportunities to compose new works for youth, mixed, female/male choirs, or for a piano quintet. Each winner will receive a cash prize and will be invited to debut their work at the International Eisteddfod. Applications will be open between Saturday 21st September and Wednesday 1st April.
Solo applications will open Friday 6th December, which will also include a new Solo Contemporary Dance competition.
For more information on all the competitions or to apply online visit: www.eisteddfodcompetitions.co.uk
