Borja has once again cemented its status as a global hub for choral excellence, hosting the 45th International Choral Singing Days in Aragon.
Running from October 24 through November 2, the event transformed the historic Colegiata de Santa María into a central stage for diverse international musical traditions and cultural exchange. The festival has firmly established itself as a permanent fixture on the cultural calendar, annually drawing directors, ensembles, and music lovers from across the globe to the city.
A Tradition of Musical Excellence
The festival opened on October 24 with the 18th Ramón Borobia Paños Lyric Gala. The performance featured soprano Alexandra Zamfira and pianist Carolina Hernández, who delivered a varied repertoire in honor of the local musical tradition.
The opening event was noted for its innovative musical nuances, paying tribute to the late Ramón Borobia Paños, whose legacy remains deeply rooted in the city’s musical history. The following day, the festival welcomed back Landarbaso Abesbatza from Errenteria. The group’s return served to reaffirm the long-standing bonds of friendship and collaboration established during previous editions of the event.
Concurrent with the performances, the festival held its 45th Choral Conducting Workshop. Led by professionals Maddalen Dorronsoro and Jurgis Cabulis, the workshop provided a space for technical improvement and the exchange of expertise among choral directors. This educational component was one of the largest training opportunities offered during the event.
Global Voices and Commemoration
The festival served as a platform for international unity, highlighted by an emotional performance on October 31 by the Ewha Womans Choir from South Korea. The ensemble dedicated their concert to the victims of the recent railway accident in Toledo. Through their music, the choir offered a space for solidarity and reflection, illustrating the ability of choral song to transcend cultural and linguistic borders.
The final days of the festival showcased further international talent. On November 1, the Bulgarian National Radio Children’s Choir performed, earning acclaim for the vocal precision and delicacy of their repertoire.
The event concluded on November 2 with a performance by the Academic Choir Tone Tomsic from Slovenia, whose high vocal quality brought the 45th edition to a close. This final performance demonstrated the participants' high artistic level, ending a program of musical diversity and excellence.
