The annual choral competition in the region, ChoirFest Middle East, concluded its largest-ever junior competition yesterday, with Hartland International School’s “Hartmonies” crowned Choir of the Year 2025. The four-day event, held at GEMS Wellington Silicon Oasis, 40 choirs across the UAE, representing both private and public schools from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Al Ain.The finals brought together 600 talented young voices, filling the venue with incredible energy and passion.
The prestigious competition, featuring students aged 6-11 years, was adjudicated by an esteemed panel including Rob Johnston, Drew Scott, and Ange Johnston. Choirs were evaluated on technical ability and musical expression, with specific focus on pitch, phrasing, interpretation, and overall choral tone.
“ChoirFestME is not merely a celebration of voices; it is a platform where young minds discover the power of expression and connection. Through the lens of choral music, they learn the value of collaboration and the beauty of storytelling. This year’s ChoirFestME for Junior Schools was nothing short of spectacular. It’s been an incredible journey, and the competition was fierce.”Shelley, Founder of The Fridge and ChoirFestME
The venue buzzed with excitement throughout the competition, with young performers’ faces beaming with pride as they took to the stage, many experiencing their first taste of performing in a major competition.
“We are thrilled to have won ChoirFestME for the second year in a row. As a school we are so proud of all the students in ‘Hartmonies’, their dedication to improving amazes us at every rehearsal. ChoirFestME is the embodiment of everything we enjoy about singing in choirs and it has been incredible to see so many amazing school choirs perform. We are already making plans for next year to try and achieve a three-peat.”Gareth Ansell choir director of Hartmoniesat Hartland international school.
Alongside Choir of the Yearvictory, Jebel Ali School’s “JAS Melodix” secured the Runner-Up position. Other notable winners included Swiss International Scientific School’s “Swiss Super Singers” for Best Artistic Impression, Sharjah English School’s “Sharjah Primary Choir” for Best Blend and Balance, Safa Community Choir for Best Solo Performance, Repton Al Barsha’s “Repton Junior Choir” for Best Non-English Performance, and Jabel Hafeet Charter Schools’ “Jabel Hafeet” receiving the Judges’ Pick.
“Being part of ChoirFestME has been an unforgettable experience!”said Yousef Khan, Head of Music and Performances at Repton Al Barsha. “Winning the Best Non-English Performance category was a proud moment for us—especially as we sang in French! It was wonderful to perform and connect with so many talented school choirs from across the UAE. We can’t wait to be back next year!”
