From Orpheus to the world: Philip, Charle and Ruby triumph

Philip, Charle and Ruby holding the award — New Zealand Youth Choir was awarded Choir of The World at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales.

From Orpheus to the world: Charle, Philip and Ruby triumph

We are bursting with pride to celebrate three of our own, Charle, Philip and Ruby, who have just returned from Europe as part of the New Zealand Youth Choir, winners of the 2025 Choir of the World title at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales.

This extraordinary honour places them at the very pinnacle of global choral achievement. Competing against choirs from across the globe, the NZ Youth Choir not only won the Mixed Choir and Adult Folk Song categories, but also secured a place in the grand final where they triumphed as overall Choir of the World.

A triumphant European tour

Charle, Philip and Ruby were part of a tour that drew standing ovations, sold-out halls and glowing reviews. Just days before Llangollen, the choir also made their mark at the European Choir Games in Aarhus, Denmark. There they claimed the Grand Prix of Nations Folklore title with a remarkable score of 97.5, while also placing second in Musica Sacra a cappella.

At Llangollen, conductor David Squire was awarded Most Inspiring Conductor, underlining the artistry and leadership that have shaped this ensemble’s success.

Pride for Orpheus and Aotearoa

For Orpheus Choir Wellington, it is a joy to see our members stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation’s finest young singers on the world stage. Their voices, dedication and mana are woven into this victory, which judges described as embodying “the true spirit of Aotearoa.”

Above is a photo of Philip, Charle and Ruby proudly holding the impressive bronze trophy, a lasting symbol of their achievement.

A historic win

For the 2025 ensemble, and for our own Charle, Philip and Ruby, this victory represents not just international recognition, but also a celebration of what makes New Zealand’s choral tradition unique: the seamless blend of cultural pride, technical brilliance and artistic passion.

We warmly congratulate Philip, Charle and Ruby on this outstanding achievement, and look forward to hearing their voices enrich Orpheus Choir Wellington as they bring home the glow of international success.