The 15th World Peace Choir Festival to Open at the grand festival hall of the Vienna city hall！
Following the successful debut of the World Peace Choir Festival in the Festival Hall of Vienna City Hall in 2024, the opening ceremony of the 15th World Peace Choir Festival in 2026 has been specially invited by the Mayor of Vienna and approved by the Vienna City Government. It will be grandly held at the grand festival hall of the Vienna city hall . This not only recognizes the festival’s continued global influence but also reflects the Vienna City Government and the Mayor’s enduring support for promoting world peace and cultural exchange.
The grand festival hall of the Vienna city hall
Built in 1883, the grand festival hall of the Vienna city hall is an outstanding example of Neo-Gothic architecture and one of Vienna’s iconic landmarks. Its rich historical heritage, exquisite architectural details, soaring towers, and splendid interior decoration create a solemn yet elegant artistic atmosphere for the festival. It is not only a performance venue but also a symbol where history, culture, and the spirit of peace converge.
Gathering of Participants
Within this historic building, choirs from around the world will once again come together, using harmonious voices to convey messages of love and peace. Music transcends borders, friendships are forged, and participants and audiences alike will experience a feast for both the senses and the soul.
Guest Speeches
This event is not only a celebration of art but also a platform for promoting the ideals of peace and building bridges of friendship among youth. Distinguished speakers will include representatives from the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, officials from the Vienna City Government, the Executive Director of UNICEF, the President of the Global Youth Musicians Association, Professor Alois Grasmayer, Head of Conducting at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, and Professor Wu Lingfen, Chair of the WPCF Jury Committee. Their presence symbolizes the broad social consensus and strong support for the festival’s mission: promoting understanding through music and advocating peace through song.
Opening Ceremony Concert
The “Angels of Peace” from across the globe will take the stage one by one, bringing performances imbued with the rhythms of their nations and rich cultural heritage. Poetry in different languages, distinctive costumes, and melodies rooted in history will weave together into a magnificent panorama of world music. This will not only be a feast for the ears but also a cultural dialogue realized through polyphonic harmony.
Honors and Awards
Participating choirs will receive certificates of recognition awarded by representatives from the Vienna City Government and the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, acknowledging their contributions to the cause of peace.
Festival Theme Song
Finally, all choirs will unite to sing the festival theme song, “Coming Together to Sing.” As the melody fills the hall, voices of different languages and backgrounds will harmonize, transcending all boundaries. Music will vividly embody the festival’s core message: “Sing for Peace, Come Together to Sing.” This moment will officially mark the hopeful opening of the 15th World Peace Choir Festival.
Peace Charity Sale
To celebrate the festival’s 15th anniversary, a peace charity sale will take place alongside the opening concert. Participating countries will present unique cultural souvenirs for sale, reflecting their distinctive heritage while conveying heartfelt wishes for peace and friendship. All proceeds will be donated to UNICEF to support children in need. This charity event carries profound significance, promoting the cause of peace while directly contributing to the well-being of children.
Call for Reflections
The grandeur of the ceremony, official recognition, and global resonance form the public splendor of the World Peace Choir Festival. Yet the most touching and lasting echoes often occur within the hearts of each participant. The genuine reflections recorded in diaries, conversations, or memories are the truest testament to the festival’s meaning.
What does WPCF look like through your eyes? We sincerely invite you to capture and share your “WPCF story” in words, images, or any form you like. Submissions can be sent to info@wpcf.at. We also warmly welcome you to join us in person and compose the next chapter of your own WPCF journey.