On Saturday 12 July, Birmingham University Singers and the University Women’s Choir competed at the Llangollen International Music Eisteddfod 2014, making history for the University of Birmingham.

"I am so delighted that our splendid University choirs have been recognised for what they are: among the very best student ensembles in the country. They are rightly very excited by their adventure at Llangollen and I hope sixth formers all over the country will want to choose to come to join us at the University of Birmingham!"
Simon Halsey

Birmingham University Singers performed in the Mixed Choirs competition, giving a polished and emotional performance of their repertoire. The adjudicators commented particularly on their good balance and blend, excellent dynamics and diction, and ability to make pieces come alive. The choir received 84.3 points but were against some tough competition; they placed 6thoverall, only 4.7 points behind first place.

University Women’s Choir then competed in the Female Choirs competition. Their programme included Jubilate Deo by MA Choral Conducting student Jan Wilke.  The panel were particularly impressed with their articulation, dynamics, lyrical ability and maintained tempo. They received 88.3 marks, a mark which secured them 1stplace and a place in the final.

"It makes me feel so privileged to be part of University Women’s Choir. Thank you for the opportunity!"
First year Medical student.

As winners of the Female Choirs competition, the University Women’s Choir competed in the final against the winners of the Youth, Open, Mixed, and Male Voice competitions for the Choir of the World trophy. They performed to a packed-out pavilion and gave an immaculate performance. They were pipped to the post by the winners of the Mixed Choir competition, but they received fantastic feedback from members of the audience, some calling the girls’ performance ‘perfect’.

• UWC in the Choir of the World final
• BUS in Mixed Choirs competition

The success of both of the choirs on Saturday would not have been possible without the support from the College of Arts and Law Experience Fund. We would also like to express our gratitude to the School of Music, the Medical and Dental Sciences College, and the Circles of Influence Campaign.