We invite you to the second International Festival of Advent and Christmas Songs in Cieszyn. It is organised by the University of Silesia in Katowice — Faculty of Arts and Educational Science, Institute of Music in Cieszyn. The Music Without Borders Foundation co-organises the competition, and the Cieszyn Cultural Centre “Dom Narodowy” is the partner. The festival director is Prof. Izabella Zielecka-Panek.
The festival cultivates singing traditions, popularises Advent and Christmas choral literature, promotes contemporary choral music and lets ensembles share their experience.
Who can take part
The competition is open to amateur choirs and ensembles, each in one category:
- mixed, equal-voice, children’s, youth and senior choirs
- chamber choirs (12–24 singers) and vocal ensembles (up to 12 singers)
- vocal-instrumental and instrumental ensembles
Competition programme
- up to 15 minutes on stage, at least 3 pieces
- Advent songs, carols, pastorals and Christmas pieces — no winter-themed songs
- at least one traditional Polish carol; a carol arranged by Józef Świder is welcome — the best performance receives a special prize
All ensembles perform in the Laureates’ Concert on the afternoon of 12 December and sing “Lulajże Jezuniu” arranged by Józef Świder together. Choirs may also sing a short carol programme at the Christmas market in Cieszyn’s Market Square.
Prizes
Grand Prix (cash prize), gold, silver and bronze diplomas, and a special prize for the best carol arranged by Józef Świder.
Key dates
- 31 October 2026 — applications via the form or festiwalswider@gmail.com
- 15 November 2026 — qualification results
- 5 December 2026 — scores of the repertoire
- 12 December 2026 — auditions and the Laureates’ Concert
The entry fee is PLN 500; ensembles cover their own travel. Payment details and full rules are in the organiser’s regulations.
Contact
Festival office: Institute of Music, ul. Niemcewicza 2, 43-400 Cieszyn, Poland, festiwalswider@gmail.com. Organisational director: Dr Maria Zuber, tel. +48 606 356 440.
