Moscow A Capella Festival

From August 23 to September 1, Moscow once again became the center of musical magic as the international vocal festival and competition “Moscow A Capella” filled the air with inspiration and harmony. This event brought together 154 groups from various corners of Russia and 13 countries around the world, which, like bright notes in a symphony, filled the open spaces of the capital, beautifully decorated with flowers and ornamental plants. Every corner breathed art, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the world of vocal mastery.

▎Variety of Genres and Styles

Music in different languages and a wide variety of genres — from pop and rock to jazz, folk, and gospel — echoed across 40 venues. Participants, like true sound magicians, competed in various categories: soloists, small, medium, and large ensembles, performing works without musical accompaniment. Their voices intertwined in the air, creating astonishing harmonies. Many performers skillfully imitated instruments, filling the space with rich and full sound. It was not just a performance — it was magic capable of touching hearts.

▎Evaluation of Performances

Audiences actively participated in evaluating performances by voting for their favorites on the competition’s website. A professional jury also carefully monitored every moment, adding an extra level of competition. The performances amazed with a high level of professionalism, interesting arrangements of world hits and folk songs, as well as original compositions. Each number was like a little story told through voice — an instrument capable of conveying the deepest emotions.

▎Gala Concert and Winners

On August 31, a final gala concert dedicated to love for the homeland took place in Zaryadye Park. That evening, amidst the sounds of music and live emotions, the best performers in four categories were announced. The Grand Prix of 2024 was awarded to the South African group Zolani Youth Choir, whose voices transported us to another world. Moscow’s Sonya Singleton won the hearts of the audience in the “live looping performance” category, while the group PLUSFIVE from St. Petersburg took first place among “small vocal ensembles.”

Winners in other categories included Large Vocal Ensembles:

• 1st place — Los Cantantes de Manila (Philippines).
• 2nd place — Moscow Gospel Team (Moscow), Vocal Renascer (Angola).
• 3rd place — Academic Choir of the Belgorod State Philharmonic (Belgorod), Liping Grand Song of Dong Ethnic Group (China).

▎Conclusion

The “Moscow A Capella” festival became not only a platform for showcasing vocal art but also a meeting place for cultures and nations. Thousands of spectators, including children and teenagers, enjoyed the magical atmosphere of music created by talented performers. This event reaffirmed that music unites people, regardless of their background.

Each of us can become part of this magic. Engage in vocal practice, discover new facets of creativity within yourself, and share your story through music. Vocal performance is not just sound; it is a way to express oneself, connect souls, and gift the world a piece of your heart.

See you next summer, Moscow!