28/04/2026
🕊️ Welcome to the 15th World Peace Choral Festival 2026
🇲🇰 The Sound of Gevgelija: Gortinija Choir & Maestro Ilija Atanasov
What happens when you mix a small-town heart with world-class ambition? You get Gortinija! Hailing from the sun-drenched town of Gevgelija, North Macedonia, this ensemble is living proof that geography is no barrier to greatness. For nearly 20 years, they have traveled from ancient monasteries to the legendary concert halls of Europe, proving that passion knows no borders.
🎼 The Architect of Harmony
Behind this extraordinary sound is Maestro Ilija Atanasov, a visionary leader in the Balkan choral scene for nearly three decades.
The "Transformative Touch": Trained in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Maestro Atanasov is celebrated for his rare ability to elevate amateur voices to professional excellence, turning local ensembles into prestigious international award-winners.
A Cultural Pioneer: He has revitalized choral art in his homeland, leading national premieres of masterpieces by Stravinsky, Penderecki, and Rutter.
✨ A Repertoire Without Limits
Gortinija brings a unique energy that bridges tradition and the avant-garde. Their versatility is unmatched:
Awards: Grand Prix winners (Serbia) and Silver Medalists at the Anton Bruckner Competition (Austria).
Range: From the spiritual solemnity of 19th-century Orthodox liturgy to high-octane Jazz Mass and Rock choral arrangements.
🌍 Small Town, Big Dreams: Singing for Peace
As they prepare to take the stage in Vienna, Gortinija represents more than just musical excellence; they are Ambassadors of Peace. Coming from a community of fewer than 20,000 people to the world’s musical capital, their journey embodies the spirit of our festival—ensuring that every unique voice is heard.
"When the voices of Gevgelija rise in Vienna, they bring the spirit of Macedonia and leave behind a message of hope. They remind us that while our languages may differ, our hearts beat to the same rhythm."
Our festival is incredibly proud to showcase the leadership of Maestro Atanasov and the soul of the Gortinija Choir. Let’s witness the moment where dreams cross borders and music unites the world!
🌍 Join us at the World Peace Choral Festival—this is our festival, where music becomes the universal language of peace!