AEC Shine As Choir of the World 2026 at Llangollen Eisteddfod

The Advent Euphonic Chorale (AEC) was named Choir of the World 2026 at the prestigious Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in North Wales, United Kingdom, on July 12, 2026.

“This is a testament to and a celebration of God’s faithfulness and goodness throughout our singing ministry,” AEC expressed. After choirs from around the world, AEC captured the Pavarotti Trophy, marking a historic milestone for the Philippines and the Adventist community.

AEC won two major categories: First Place in the Open Category with a score of 96 points and First Place in the Mixed Choir (SATB) Category with a score of 95 points. These consecutive high scores made the choir grand finalists for the global title.

“This recognition is not ours alone,” AEC expressed immense gratitude for the people and community behind the success on their Facebook post. “Above all, we give God all the praise and glory. As we always say, we will continue to sing with one song, one heart, one goal—for one God.”

The panel of international judges expressed deep appreciation for AEC’s artistic interpretation and technical precision. In their official evaluation, the adjudicators commended their “tremendous handling of very complex repertoire, particularly in a high tessitura in all voices. Great intonation, great dial of contrast…” The judges also highlighted the performance’s dynamic arrangement, with a balanced quartet and a large choir. “The quartet lost slightly in the texture of the halls, but it was lovely to hear those voices coming through.”

John Gambles, chair of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, congratulated AEC: “Congratulations to Advent Euphonic Chorale on becoming our 2026 Choir of the World. To win three major titles in a single day is an extraordinary achievement and reflects the exceptional standard of musicianship, artistry and dedication shown by every member of the choir.”

Dave Danford, the artistic director, also highly commended AEC, noting that the competitive standard showed outstanding precision, musicality and expression throughout the day. “Winning the Mixed Choir, Open Choirs and Choir of the World titles in the space of a few hours is an extraordinary accomplishment and one that will long be remembered in Llangollen.”

This achievement reflected AEC’s dedicated spiritual journey as Adventist choir singers. In their participation at last year’s festival, AEC faced a significant test of faith when multiple competitive categories fell on the Sabbath. As Seventh-day Adventists, AEC withdrew from those sections to honor God, competing only in a single weekday round and winning the second-highest score in the Open Category. One year later, their faith, commitment, and relentless hard work were rewarded with absolute victory. This victory powerfully affirms the very faith and purpose that has guided their journey from the start. AEC continued to shine on until they sing again.

The original article was published on the Adventist University of the Philippines news site.