The Olympics of choral music will bring 20,000 participants and tens of thousands of visitors from more than 70 countries to Cincinnati USA from July 4-14, 2012 for what will be the largest and most significant international arts event in the city’s history.

World Choir Games is the signature event of Interkultur, a Germany-based organization that produces international choral events worldwide. Inspired by the Olympic ideal, the goal of the World Choir Games is to unite people from all nations through singing in peaceful competition.

There is an Open competition for all choirs and a Champions competition for those who qualify. Choirs compete for gold, silver and bronze medals. The title of “Champions of the World Choir Games” is bestowed upon the top performers in each Champions competition category. There will be 22 different musical genres in Cincinnati USA, including barbershop, folklore, jazz, pop, gospel and spiritual. Judging is done by an impartial international jury.

There will also be entertainment-packed opening and closing ceremonies, awards ceremonies and hundreds of public performances, including “Friendship concerts,” free choral performances on city streets, public squares, attraction venues and parks.

A worldwide spotlight will be on Cincinnati USA for this exhilarating and memorable event.