April NUI Galway Choir Win at Cork International Choral Festival

NUI Galway’s The Testostertones choir were presented with the ‘National Male Voice Choir’ award at the recent Cork International Choral Festival. The Testostertones are a male voice ensemble formed in 2003 in NUI Galway by Peter Mannion. The group is comprised of students, erasmus students, staff and alumni members.

Last year The Testostertones won at the Sligo Choral Festival (Male Voice Category) and followed this up with the Early Music category at the Limerick Choral Festival in March, becoming the first male voice choir to win that section. 

Peter Mannion, Director of The Testostertones and NUI Galway graduate, said: “The Testostertones are pushing the boundaries of what is considered male voice music and giving an exciting alternative to the traditional male voice choir sound and ensemble. Winning the national title at Cork this year comes after some wonderful festival performances all over Ireland where the lads in singing such a non-traditional repertoire have added to the choral art form in Ireland. It is wonderful for us to represent the University in winning this major competition and was made more special by the make-up of the group which included staff, students and alumni.”

Founded in 1954 the Cork International Choral Festival is held annually over the five days. The Festival, which is the oldest in Cork and one of Europe’s most prestigious Choral Festivals, included gala concerts, schools concerts, national and international competitions, workshops and free outdoor performances.

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