There is a unique rhythm returning to the streets of Balbriggan this March. The Fingal International Festival of Voices (FIFOV) is back from March 5th to 8th, and while the world-class choirs are traveling from as far as the US and Europe, the heart of the festival remains firmly rooted in our local community.
Whether you are a lifelong choral fan or just looking for a great family day out, this year’s line-up offers more ways than ever to get involved—without breaking the bank18.

In a time when event tickets can be a major expense, the festival is offering free entry to all competitions. All daytime choral competitions are free for the public to attend. This means you can walk into the award-winning Lark Concert Hall or the Irish Institute of Music & Song (IIMS), St. Peter and Paul’s Church (home to Harry Clarke windows) or in pop businesses around the town and hear elite international choirs, barbershop quartets, and sacred music ensembles at no cost. It is a rare opportunity to experience a “Feis” atmosphere with a global twist right on your doorstep.

Meet the Global Choirs
Balbriggan will play host to a diverse array of voices from across the Atlantic and Europe. Locals will have the chance to hear:

The Holy Cross Choir (Massachusetts, USA): Bringing the prestigious Ivy League-style choral tradition to North County Dublin.
Chester River Chorale (Maryland, USA): A massive 60 voice ensemble showcasing a rich tapestry of American folk and gospel.
Gospodnetič Singers (Croatia): Bringing the hauntingly beautiful and rhythmic traditions of the Adriatic coast.
European School Brussels 1 (Belgium): A vibrant youth choir representing the multicultural heart of Europe.
These groups will join top-tier choirs from all over Ireland, creating a global soundscape right here in Fingal.

Learn from a Disney Legend and others.

Perhaps the most exciting news for local families and aspiring singers is the arrival of Tove Ramlo-Ystad. Hailing from Norway, Tove is the world-renowned conductor of the choir “Cantus,” famous for providing the iconic, ethereal vocals in the opening of Disney’s FROZEN.

Tove is part of an elite panel of adjudicators from Norway, the UK, the US, the Netherlands, and Ireland. Across the weekend, these experts won’t just be judging competitions; they will be leading free workshops open to anyone with an interest in singing. Whether you’re a shower-singer or a seasoned pro, you can learn directly from the woman who helped shape the sound of one of the biggest movies of all time.

Learn from the Best: Free Workshops
The festival is offering workshops and classes led by international guests. These sessions are designed to be inclusive, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned singers. Topics often include:
Music of Sami People & Norway (Tove Ramlo-Ystad)

Learn to sing to barbershop style
Local health and “healthy singing” techniques.

Irish Traditional music workshops
Check out our full schedule on www.fingalfestivalofvoices.com or on our instagram @fingalfestivalofvoices

If you are interested in volunteering we’d love to have you - email: manager@fingalfestivalofvoices.com with the subject title Volunteer!

Thank you to our supporters and sponsors - Irish Media Group, Fingal County Council, Our Balbriggan, The Irish Institute of Music and Song, Lark Concert Hall, St. Peter and Paul’s Church