How the Competition Works

An orchestra performing on stage inside a concert hall with a wooden interior, with audience members seated in front.

Morley Von Sternberg‍ ‍

Choirs apply online before selected finalists compete live at Milton Court Concert Hall in April 2027

Rules & Guidelines

Applications Open: 25 June 2026 - Applications will be open 6 weeks.

Finals: Milton Court - Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London, 10 April 2027

Categories: Community · Classical · Contemporary

Access: Bursaries available to help with application, travel or accommodation

Poster for UK Choir of the Year, highlighting categories of Contemporary, Community, and Classical choir competitions with photos of people singing and performing.

How it works

• June: Choirs apply via a 6-minute video submission (one song), online application form and £30 application fee

• Dec latest: 18 category finalists are selected and receive feedback from the preliminary judging panel

• Category finalists confirm place in live finals with £150 competition fee - Bursaries available

• April 10: Daytime category finals across three sessions. Each choir performs up to 10-minute programme

• The three category winners proceed to the Evening Grand Final

• Evening Grand Final includes guest performers, a professional host, and repeat performances from the three category winners

• One choir will be named UK Choir of the Year

Empty auditorium with a wooden stage and seating area, viewed from the balcony.

All 18 finalists receive:

Expert feedback from the judging panel, professional photos and a video of their performance

Category Winners receive:

• Category title - eg  UK Classical Choir of the Year

• Trophy to keep

• A year's subscription to Ear Master (music training software)

• Extra photos and video of their Grand Final performance

Overall Winner receives:

• Title of UK Choir of the Year

• One trophy to keep and one to return the following competition year

• £350 Cash prize