International May Choir Competition "Prof. Georgi Dimitrov"

The International May Choir Competition was established in 1975 under the initiative of the outstanding choral conductor Prof. Marin Chonev and the Varna Municipality

In 1982 it was named after the eminent Bulgarian composer Georgi Dimitrov – founder of the contemporary Bulgarian choral school.

Since 1989 the International May Choir Competition has been a member of the European Association - organizer of >span class="hps">“European Grand Prix for Choral Singing”, which takes place in Arezzo (Italy), Debrecen (Hungary), Tours (France), Maribor (Slovenia), Varna (Bulgaria) and Tolosa (Spain).

The six, above mentioned competitions, are among the most prestigious ones in Europe and have won recognition due to their long-standing traditions, good organization and high level of artistry.

The Competition is held every year according Regulations which are updated for each edition and are approved on the session of the Municipal Council.

The main goals of the Competition are as follows:

- Popularizing of Bulgarian choral art and song work. According to the Regulations each category includes one obligatory Bulgarian song.

There is also a special prize for best performance of Bulgarian song by a foreign choir.

- Popularizing of European choral heritage of different periods and styles among the children and youths.

- Exchange of scores, information, contacts between Bulgarian and foreign conductors, choral singers and choral figures. - To make acquainted the participants from abroad with the rich Bulgarian culture, with the friendly people and natural beauty of Bulgaria.