Mauritius has been alive with song this week, as choirs from across Africa and the Asia-Pacific gathered for the African Asia Pacific Choir Games & Grand Prix of Nations 2025. Running from 27 September to 5 October, the event transformed the island into a global stage for harmony, dialogue, and cultural celebration.

Choirs Across Continents

Over 50 choirs from 14 countries arrived on the island, their repertoires ranging from classical chamber works to spirited folk traditions. The UiTM Chamber Choir of Malaysia made headlines early, clinching gold in both the Chamber Choir and Equal Voice categories—while also securing the Grand Prix de Nation title. From Namibia, the Opuwo Youth Choir, aged 10 to 35, showcased rural voices and Indigenous songs, while South Africa’s Paul Roos Gymnasium Choir impressed juries in Gospel/Spiritual and Folklore categories.

Each ensemble brought not only polished artistry but also the stories and cultural textures of their home countries, creating a choral mosaic that stretched across languages, faiths, and histories.

Artistic Direction & Adjudication

Guiding the festival was Michael Barrett, Artistic Director and respected conductor from South Africa. Under his vision, the event struck a balance between competition and exchange, making room for both polished professionals and youth ensembles taking their first steps on the international stage.

An international jury evaluated choirs across Open, Champions, and Grand Prix levels. While individual names have not all been publicised, decisions have already elevated several choirs—among them Malaysia’s Vocal Pizzest in the Children’s Choir category and Namibia’s Opuwo Youth Choir in Folklore. The jury’s role extended beyond scoring, offering feedback that will guide these choirs’ musical journeys long after the festival ends.

A Festival of Support

Behind the music stood a robust network of supporters. The festival was organised by INTERKULTUR, together with Mauritius’ Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Local Organising Committee for International Choir Competitions (LOCICC 2025). Private sponsors such as Olympia Sports, Quality Beverages Ltd, Planet Pharma, Mauritius Telecom, SBM, and McDonald’s Mauritius provided vital backing, underlining the event’s significance for both culture and tourism.

More Than Competition

Staged at venues including the Caudan Arts Centre, the Port Louis Old Theatre, and the Côte d’Or National Sports Complex, the festival has been as much about meeting as competing. Choirs exchanged songs informally, audiences responded with standing ovations, and conversations stretched long past rehearsals.

As the Games near their finale, what lingers is not just the medals, but the resonance of voices joined across borders. For Mauritius, this week has been a reminder that harmony is not only sung—it is lived.

For more information about the choir competition, visit their official website here.