From:Department of Culture, Communications and Sport

The Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, has today congratulated Cór Linn on winning the Grand Prix at the International Youth Music Festival in Bratislava last Friday. The National Concert Hall’s mixed-voice choir for singers aged 14 to 18 achieved outstanding success, scoring 97 out of 100, the highest overall score across all competition categories, including choir, orchestra, dance, jazz and percussion. Their exceptional performance earned them both a gold medal and the prestigious Grand Prix title.

Speaking today Minister O’Donovan said:

“I wish to congratulate choral director Ciarán Kelly and all the members of Cór Linn on their remarkable performance at the International Youth Music Festival in Slovakia. Their near-flawless mark across all categories is a testament to the dedication of these young people and their passion for music and song."

“As well as winning the Grand Prix in the festival, Cór Linn also received a special participation award in recognition of their spirit and behaviour throughout the festival. Following this success, Cór Linn have been invited to participate in the prestigious Competition Cançó Mediterrània 2027 and the International Pau Casals Choir Competition in Barcelona.This shows the esteem in which they are held across the world. They are wonderful cultural ambassadors for Ireland, and I wish each and every one of them the very best in what will be a bright future in the world of music.”