International
Johannes Brahms
Choir Festival
& Competition
International Variety
Meets Historical Backdrop
Since 1999, this festival has been a highlight in INTERKULTUR's calendar, drawing choirs from around the globe to the picturesque town of Wernigerode. Known for its enchanting medieval architecture and deep musical roots, the city offers an stage for choral excellence.
Named after the great German composer Johannes Brahms, the competition places special emphasis on his works and the broader repertoire of 19th-century German Romanticism — offering a musically enriching experience for choirs of all styles and levels.
"I've been at many choir festivals in my career, but this one was special. Everybody's warmth, the professional organization, wonderful choirs and perfect venues — all this created a very special experience."
Choose Your Path
Customize your event experience by mixing and matching competitive and non-competitive participation options.
Competitive Participation
Compete in official categories before an international jury. Choirs are evaluated using the MUSICA MUNDI® 30-point evaluation system and awarded Gold, Silver, or Bronze Diplomas.
- Category A: Advanced Mixed & Equal Difficulty Level I — for experienced mixed and equal voice choirs ready to compete at the highest artistic standards.
- Category B: Mixed & Equal Voices Difficulty Level II — open to all adult mixed and equal voice choirs seeking a new musical and choral challenge.
- Category C: Chamber Choirs & Vocal Ensembles A cappella — for smaller, intimate mixed and equal voice ensembles performing demanding repertoire completely a cappella.
- Category G: Children & Youth Choirs For young singers (children, youth, and young adults) in a supportive, inspiring festival environment.
- Category S: Sacred Choral Music A cappella — Christian sacred music performed entirely a cappella.
- Category F: Folklore Showcasing rich cultural heritage through traditional folk melodies, traditional costumes, and acoustic instruments.
Non-Competitive Participation
Perform and learn in a supportive environment without the pressure of competition. Ideal for choirs seeking international artistic exchange and pedagogical feedback.
- Friendship Concerts Perform in local concert settings (venues, churches, or open-air stages) together with other international choirs. Includes at least two performances of approx. 15 minutes.
- Evaluation Performance Perform a 15-minute program of 3 pieces before international jurors. Immediately after, receive constructive pedagogical feedback in a private 45-minute artistic discussion.
- Individual Coaching A private 45-minute rehearsal/coaching session on a piece of the choir's choice with a world-class choral expert for new artistic ideas and interpretive guidance.
What People Say
"The choir festival represents an important cultural highlight which enriches the city of Wernigerode. One must simply become part of it — it is a memorable event as I know first-hand."
"Wernigerode as a city, as well as this whole festival, were both first times for me. Both of them were top class experiences!! Yours stands out as a serious top shelf experience among the years."
"Heartfelt and sincere thanks for this unique, thoroughly successful musical top-class event! Your dedication has moved so many people and created a harmony through music that is second to none!"
Wernigerode —
A Fairy-Tale City
Wernigerode is a gem of medieval architecture, beautifully located at the edge of the Harz mountain range. Hardly any other German city has so many gorgeous timber-framed buildings competing for a visitor's attention.
Secure Your Spot
Register early and save with our Early Bird rate. Limited spots available for each category.
Additional activities (each additional category, coaching etc.): 200€. Event Package (accommodation + local services) required for non-regional choirs. Regional choirs within 200 km pay a reduced Participant Fee.
Ready to Join?
Fill out the official registration form and become part of one of INTERKULTUR's most beloved events.
Register Your Choir NowFrequently Asked Questions
Find quick answers to the most common questions about participation, requirements, and registration.
Who is eligible to participate in the festival and competition?
All non-professional (amateur) choirs are welcome to compete. With the exception of the conductors, all members must be amateur singers (i.e., they do not earn their livelihood through professional singing). Some categories have age limits, such as Children's and Youth categories, where a maximum of 20% of singers may deviate from the limit by up to 5 years.
What participation paths are available for my choir?
Choirs can customize their experience by choosing from or combining competitive and non-competitive options:
• Competitive Participation: Compete in official categories (Advanced Mixed/Equal, Mixed/Equal Level II, Chamber Choirs, Children & Youth, Sacred Music, or Folklore) before an international jury.
• Non-Competitive Festival Participation: Perform in local Friendship Concerts, register for an Evaluation Performance (15 minutes before a jury with immediate pedagogical advice), or take part in an Individual Coaching session (45 minutes with a choral expert).
What are the registration deadlines and fees?
The final registration deadline is December 14, 2026. Register by the Early Bird deadline on October 19, 2026 to receive a reduced rate of €150 for the first activity (regular rate: €300). Additional activities are €200 each. Note that registration fees are non-refundable in case of cancellation.
Can we submit our scores digitally (e.g., as PDF files)?
No. Scores sent as digital files (PDF or similar) will not be accepted. Choirs must send their music scores by post/mail as physical hardcopies (5 copies for competition, 3 for Evaluation Performances, and 1 for Individual Coaching). Copies must conform to internationally recognized sheet music standards and use the Roman alphabet (or include a transcription).
Are playback tracks or vocal amplification allowed in the competition?
No. Vocal and instrumental amplification is not permitted. Microphones and playbacks are strictly prohibited. In the Folklore category, only piano and traditional acoustic folk instruments are allowed. In venues with difficult acoustics, the organizers may use subtle supporting amplification, but no solo microfonation is allowed.
Is booking accommodation through the event organizers mandatory?
Yes, booking an Event Package (minimum stay of 4 nights) is required for participating choirs. This package includes accommodation in various hotel categories and local services. However, choirs originating from a radius of up to 200 km around Wernigerode who do not need an overnight stay pay a per-person Participant Fee instead of the Event Package.
How does the evaluation system and diplomas work?
Choirs are evaluated by international choral experts using the MUSICA MUNDI® 30-point system. Choirs are awarded Bronze (1–10.49 pts), Silver (10.5–20.49 pts), or Golden (20.5–30.00 pts) Diplomas based on their score. The choir with a golden diploma and the highest score in each category becomes the Category Winner (minimum 20.50 pts). Category Winners qualify to compete in the Grand Prize Competition for the Johannes Brahms Choir Prize (worth €2,000).
Request More Information
Would you like to receive a detailed information package about participation options, fees, and accommodation for your choir?