Hamilton Children’s Choir (HCC) has returned on a high note from the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Llangollen, Wales, bringing home a first prize trophy for winning the Children’s Folk Song competition, among other high-ranking placements.
HCC’s Ilumini ensemble was invited to compete in the prestigious festival and was the only choir representing Canada at this year’s Eisteddfod. Ilumini is comprised of 32 singers between the ages of 13 and 18, who travelled from July 1-8, 2024, along with 6 HCC chaperones. Their class placements were:
- 1st prize, Children’s Folk Songs
- 2nd prize, Children’s Open Choirs
- 3rd prize, Open Choirs
- 4th prize, Senior Children’s Choirs
HCC is also especially proud of their 3rd prize placement in Open Choirs, as this competition was open to all choirs at the festival, including adult and university choirs, musical theatre performers, and barbershop ensembles. In addition to their four competitions, the choir performed several concerts at the festival as well as a workshop for local schoolchildren, making for an exceptionally busy and music-filled week. The choir is supported in rehearsal and performance by Jamie Drake, percussionist, and Laura Pin, pianist, and conducted by Melanie Tellez, Artistic Director.
Tellez remarks, “It was a wonderful week, with challenges, deep collaboration and incredible joy for these young singers. I am so proud of their artistry, drive, and courage.”
The Llangollen International Musical Eistseddfod brings together around 4,000 performers and 35,000 visitors from across the globe annually to celebrate music, dance, and international friendship. The Eisteddfod was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004.
