Among the participants are world-famous choirs that have won several competitions: Hannover Junges Vokalensemble (Germany), the University of Oregon Chamber Choir (USA), Riga Dom Cathedral Girls' Choir (Latvia), “Sōla” Mixed Choir of the Latvian Academy of Culture (Latvia) and many others. This time the festival is record-breaking in terms of the number of countries participating in the event.

For the first time, the festival will have a competition for vocal ensembles and there will be an educational programme in addition to concerts:  Zimfira Poloz (Canada), member of the jury and one of the most renowned children`s and youth choir conductors, will host a free workshop on 13 April at 10.30 in the Estonian National Opera Winter Garden.

Festival organiser Estonian Choral Association and Artistic Director Hirvo Surva have compiled an eventful programme: the choirs will not only take part in a high-level competition but are also going to give concerts in churches, concert halls and schools in Tallinn. In total, ten concerts can be expected in Estonia Concert Hall, the House of the Brotherhood of Blackheads, St. John`s Church, the Glass Hall of the Song Festival Grounds, St. Nicholas` Church, Jakob Westholm Gymnasium, Tallinn English College and Tallinn Secondary Science School.

The choirs will be assessed by an international jury consisting of world-renowned and acknowledged musicians: Zimfira Poloz (Canada), Filippo Maria Bressan (Italy), Bo Johansson (Sweden), Sigvards Klava (Latvia) and Mikk Üleoja (Estonia). Their task is to divide the competition`s prize money of 24,100 euros between the best contestants.

 “Mass no. 2”, a composition by Urmas Sisask, written for three a capella choirs and conducted by Hirvo Surva, will be presented at the festival`s final concert on 17 April in Estonia Concert Hall.

“Tallinn” choir festival tradition was first established in 1972. It is the only international choir competition in Estonia and all choir categories are welcome to take part in it. The festival is organized by the Estonian Choral Association and it is held in Tallinn every other year.