NCH Choir Cór Linn, a mixed-voice choir for singers aged 14 to 18 based at the National Concert Hall in Dublin, have won a gold medal at the International Youth Music Festival in Bratislava with a near perfect score.
Under the direction of Choral Director Ciarán Kelly, the choir won the top prize in the Youth Choir SATB (Under-21) Competition, scoring 97 out of 100, the highest overall score across all competition categories, including choir, orchestra, dance, jazz and percussion, earning Cór Linn the Grand Prix title.
They also received a special participation award in recognition of their “spirit and behaviour” throughout the festival.
Commenting on the win, Nigel Flegg, CEO of the National Concert Hall, said, “We are immensely proud of NCH Cór Linn on this outstanding international achievement.
“To win both a Gold Medal and the overall Grand Prix title is a remarkable testament to the dedication, talent and hard work of these exceptional young singers, Choral Director Ciarán Kelly and the team.
“NCH Choirs are a key pillar of the National Concert Hall’s programme, providing singers with opportunities to develop their vocal and ensemble skills and perform at the highest level. Cór Linn’s success is a source of great pride for the National Concert Hall and for Ireland, and we congratulate them on representing us with such distinction on the international stage.”
As a result of their success, Cór Linn has been invited to participate in the 20th International Festival and Competition Cançó Mediterrània 2027 and the International Pau Casals Choir Competition in Barcelona.
Founded by RTÉ in 2018, Cór Linn has previously won the National Youth Choir Competition at the City of Derry International Choir Festival in 2024 and returned in 2025 to win both the National Youth Choir and National Sacred & Gospel competitions, where they were named Overall National Choir of the Festival.