Choirs-in-residence
Three choirs will serve as workshop ensembles for the seminar: Arcova Vocal Ensemble, Mazì Ensemble, and Coro Giro Giro Canto.
Arcova Vocal Ensemble [mixed choir]
Choir coach during the seminar: Alberto Pelosin
The Arcova Vocal Ensemble was founded by ARCOVA on the occasion of the European Seminar for Young Composers in the summer of 2014. The group is made up of young musicians from various regional choral backgrounds. Its mission is to play an active role in the development and promotion of the rich choral polyphonic repertoire.The ensemble has performed in numerous concerts in Italy and abroad, including the Europa Cantat in Pécs (Hungary), MITO Settembre Musica, the International Polyphonic Meeting “Città di Fano,” Floralies, and the opening concert of the Lago Maggiore Polyphonic Competition.In 2016, it joined the “Officina Corale del Futuro” project, an initiative promoted by Feniarco to encourage the creation and development of regional youth choirs. In 2021, it also took part in La Musica di Dante, a project involving Italian youth choirs dedicated to the Supreme Poet, alongside eight other regional ensembles.In 2024, the ensemble was awarded a second and a third prize, as well as a special prize, at the prestigious Béla Bartók International Choir Competition.Over the years, it has been conducted by Davide Benetti, Nicola Forlin, and Caroline Voyat; since March 2025, it has been directed by Christian Chouquer.
Mazì [female ensemble]
Mazì Ensemble was founded in 2023 by a group of young women who grew up singing together in the Canto Leggero choir. Their shared passion for choral singing—together with the strong personal bond developed over the years—led them to reunite with the aim of exploring new experiences and seeking fresh inspiration for singing together. Hence the name Mazì, which in Greek means “together.”All members of the ensemble actively contribute to the life of the group, from repertoire selection to the organization and leadership of rehearsals. The chosen pieces reflect the singers’ sensitivity to contemporary themes such as the environment, traditions, and social issues. As part of a shared path of growth, many members are currently furthering their training through courses in choral conducting and choral pedagogy.In the summer of 2024, the ensemble took part as a workshop choir in the European Seminar for Young Composers organized by Feniarco, performing both at the opening and closing concerts. In November of the same year, it was invited to the Present! Festival, held in Arvier.
Giro Giro Canto Choir [children’s choir]
The choir consists of around fifty children aged 7 to 12 and is formed specifically for the Composition Seminar. Its aim is to promote choral culture and to encourage young singers to enjoy making music together, while taking part in shared projects with other groups from the local area.
