St Cyprian’s Choir crowned Grand Prix winners at prestigious International Choir Competition in Barcelona
St Cyprian’s Choir crowned Grand Prix winners at prestigious International Choir Competition in Barcelona
St Cyprian’s School is celebrating an extraordinary achievement after its choir won the Grand Prix title as overall champions of the Golden Voices of Barcelona International Choir Competition. This remarkable accomplishment places the young choristers among the finest youth singers on the international stage and is testament to years of dedication, perseverance and musical excellence.
St Cyprian’s School is celebrating an extraordinary achievement after its choir won the Grand Prix title as overall champions of the Golden Voices of Barcelona International Choir Competition. This remarkable accomplishment places the young choristers among the finest youth singers on the international stage and is testament to years of dedication, perseverance and musical excellence.
Singing alongside choirs from around the world, the St Cyprian’s Choirs delivered outstanding performances across several categories, earning first place in World Sacred Music, Folklore, and Youth Choirs of Equal Voices, as well as a second place in Pop-Jazz-Gospel, culminating in the highest honour of the competition, the Grand Prix award.
While the title celebrates musical excellence, the journey to Barcelona tells an even greater story. For more than three years, choristers, families, staff, alumni and supporters worked together to make this international tour possible. Through fundraising events, sponsorships, and countless acts of generosity, the school community rallied behind a shared dream: to provide these young women with the opportunity to represent South Africa and St Cyprian’s on a global stage.
St Cyprian’s School Principal, Shelley Frayne says this victory belongs not only to the choristers who performed in Barcelona, but also to every person who believed in them and helped them get there. “These young women have shown what is possible when talent is nurtured through commitment, discipline and the support of a dedicated community. Their achievement is the culmination of years of hard work, hours of rehearsals and the unwavering encouragement of families, music staff and supporters”, says Frayne.
During the thirteen-day tour, the choir travelled through France, Monaco and Spain, combining cultural immersion with musical performances and educational experiences. Highlights included performances in historic churches, spontaneous singing in public spaces, workshops with international choirs, and unforgettable visits to landmarks including the Sagrada Família, Montserrat Abbey and Park Güell.
For the conductor of the choir, Mr Riaan Oosthuizen, this was an incredible opportunity to turn a dream into reality, “I am so appreciative of how the entire St Cyprian’s community rallied together to turn this dream into reality. I am particularly proud of each and every choir member for their hard work, bravery and dedication to meaningful musical experiences. I would also like to congratulate all the other choirs that took part in this prestigious competition, there has been an incredible sense of community at this event,” says Oosthuizen.
This achievement serves as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of music and what can be accomplished when a community comes together in support of its young people.
