The festival's prestigious international competition consistently features top class adult choirs from many countries. A programme of a capella music is required. It is open to application from any choir of international standing (except specifically children's choirs) with a minimum of twenty voices.

The programme must represent an historically-balanced and coherent range of styles and must include a piece composed before 1750; an original work by a living composer; and a work by a composer of the choir's native country. Application forms are available on request and the closing date is the 1st of November each year preceeding the festival. 

The deadline for applications for the Fleischmann International Trophy Competition of the 2009 Cork International Choral Festival is November 1st 2008. Application Forms can be requested by email: contact us or are available to download here.