Singing together at CantaRode
CantaRode brings choirs and singers from different countries and generations together in Kerkrade. With the CantaRode Festival Youth Choir, we also give young singers their own place within the festival.
During CantaRode 2027, young singers from the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany come together to form one Festival Youth Choir. Led by conductor Ghislaine Mommer, they work on an inspiring repertoire and experience what it is like to prepare together for a performance on CantaRode’s international stage.
From rehearsal to festival stage
The preparations begin well before CantaRode. Participating choirs receive the repertoire in advance, allowing the singers to become familiar with the music before the workshop begins.
During CantaRode, the young singers come together and work with Ghislaine Mommer on ensemble singing, interpretation and performance.
The result is a special concert experience: the Festival Youth Choir performs the rehearsed works during the CantaRode opening concert on Thursday 6 May 2027.
One stage. Different generations.
In 2027, the Festival Youth Choir takes on an extra special role. In addition to performing their own repertoire, the young singers will join the CantaRode Festival Choir for two works during the opening concert.
Two African songs bring both choirs together on one stage. A musical encounter between generations that captures exactly what CantaRode is all about: singing together, connecting with others and sharing music.
Led by Ghislaine Mommer
Conductor, music educator and artistic director Ghislaine Mommer is passionate about working with young people, choral singing and music education. In her work, she combines artistic quality with a strong educational approach, with collaboration, talent development and the joy of making music at its heart.
As conductor and artistic director of Koorschool CantiCollis, she leads choirs, concerts and special music projects for young singers. She is also active as a workshop leader and music teacher and has collaborated with organisations including Festival Vocallis, Holland Opera, Studium Chorale and André Rieu.
practical information
12:00 — Welcome
12:30 — Workshop begins
18:00 — Try-out on stage
20:00 — Performance during the opening concert
Several workshop sessions and breaks will take place throughout the afternoon.
You can participate with a complete youth choir or as an individual singer. There is no selection process and no maximum number of participants.
The workshop will be held in Dutch.
Participation fee: €12.50 per person, including sheet music, lunch and snacks, and participation in the CantaRode 2027 opening concert.
Registration is open until 23 April 2027.
The exact location in Kerkrade will be announced after registration.
Will you join the Festival Youth Choir?
Experience CantaRode not only from the audience, but take to the stage yourself. Meet other young singers, work together on an inspiring repertoire and perform during the opening concert of CantaRode 2027.
Registration opens in September 2026 and closes on 23 April 2027.