The Resonanz Children’s Choir (TRCC), led by conductor Avip Priatna, has achieved another international milestone after being named the Grand Prize winner at the 30th Béla Bartók International Choir Competition in Debrecen, Hungary, on 5 July 2026. The Indonesian children’s choir also secured first place in both the Children’s Choir and Free Program categories, while Avip Priatna received the Conductor Prize for Outstanding Interpretation of Contemporary Pieces and Expressive Choral Sounding.
The achievement marks another significant moment for Indonesian choral music at one of Europe’s most respected competitions. The Béla Bartók International Choir Competition is part of the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing (EGP), a prestigious series of international choir competitions known for its highly competitive standards. As the overall winner, TRCC has earned a place in the EGP final in Arezzo, Italy, in 2027, where it will compete against other Grand Prize winners from leading choral competitions across Europe.
Held every two years in Debrecen, the competition focuses on contemporary a cappella works from the 20th and 21st centuries. This year, TRCC took on a different challenge by preparing a programme of modern compositions instead of the Indonesian traditional songs it often performs internationally.
Featuring 40 young singers, TRCC prepared a programme of contemporary works by composers from Hungary, Italy, Slovenia, Japan, and Indonesia, including Spiritus Domini by Michele Josia and 137 Hip-Street by Indonesian composer Fero Aldiansya Stefanus. After being selected among 11 choirs worldwide, TRCC advanced to the Grand Prize round, performing three final pieces including Hodie Christus Natus Est and A Poem to the Mother of the Gods by Japanese composer Takatomi Nobunaga.
For Avip Priatna, the victory reflects the dedication and determination of the young singers. “Performing contemporary music from the 20th and 21st centuries was a major challenge. I am very proud to see how these children overcame the complexity of the repertoire and delivered it beautifully on an international stage,” he said.
The performance was also witnessed by Indonesian Ambassador to Hungary Penny Dewi Herasati, who praised the choir’s clarity, technique, and musical discipline. She highlighted how TRCC demonstrated not only the beauty of young voices but also the level of artistry required to perform demanding contemporary works.
Through this achievement, TRCC continues to strengthen Indonesia’s presence in the global choral scene, showcasing the talent and dedication of its young musicians on an international stage.
Follow the TRCC’s journey @theresonanzcc on Instagram
