Following a successful bid by Qatar National Choral Association, supported by Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC), Qatar has won the rights to host the World Symposium of Choral Music in 2023.

Held once every three years, the event is considered the most prestigious non-competitive choral event and will attract 2000-4000 international delegates to the country, reinforcing its position as a hub for cultural events.

In a statement issued today the International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM) said ‘The international choral community through the IFCM congratulates Qatar on their winning bid and wishes them every success and support in their preparations for this unique event in 2023. We are looking forward to an exciting exploration of the musical treasures of the Middle East and Central Asia. The Symposium in Qatar provides IFCM and the hosts with the opportunity to create a new network and enhance exchange and cooperation within and beyond this area.’

Giovanni Pasini, member of Qatar 2023 WSCM Organizing Committee, also said, ‘I would like to thank Qatar National Tourism Council, Qatar Foundation, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, Qatar Music Academy and Qatar Airways for supporting us. Through the IFCMs decision, Qatar will shine a spotlight on a geographic and cultural region that has thus far been hidden on the global choral map, offering a unique opportunity to introduce the diverse musical treasures of the Middle East to a huge international audience.’

HE Secretary-General of Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker, commented: ‘We are delighted to have the World Choral Symposium join the growing list of events coming to Qatar in the next few years. Attracting large scale events in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) space, is a priority area for us as we continue to drive the tourism industrys growth. It was a pleasure to support the talented Qatar National Choir Association and their passionate leadership throughout this bid, and we look forward to working with representatives of Qatars various sectors to attract more events across a broad range of sectors, including culture, sports, education, health, and science.’

The bidding process has spanned the past 12 months, with extensive examination by the International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM) of all details of the city, the venues, levels of support and the commitment of the local choral, musical and cultural life to hosting the Symposium. (QNA)


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