Sacred Arts Festival Music at Canongate Kirk: Young Composers Competition Recital

Sacred Arts Festival Music at Canongate Kirk: Young Composers Competition Recital

Cecilia McDowall, Sacred Arts Festival Singers • Semi-professional company

Google Cecilia McDowall, Sacred Arts Festival Singers
60 minutes•Canongate Kirk
The third annual competition for young composers of sacred music concludes in the historic setting of the royal kirk of Holyrood House. The Sacred Arts Festival Singers under director Calum Robertson perform the winning compositions in the 2026 competition. Principal adjudicator Cecilia McDowall, one of the UK’s leading composers of sacred choral music, will comment on the winning compositions, and the programme will include some of her own compositions. Generously funded by Christian Arts Trust, Royal College of Organists, William Baird Ross Trust and Edinburgh Society of Organists.

About the show

The third annual competition for young composers of sacred music concludes in the historic setting of the royal kirk of Holyrood House — Canongate Kirk. The Sacred Arts Festival Singers, directed by Calum Robertson, perform the winning compositions from the 2026 competition. Principal adjudicator Cecilia McDowall, one of the UK's leading composers of sacred choral music, will comment on the winning works and contribute some of her own compositions to the programme. The event is funded by Christian Arts Trust, Royal College of Organists, William Baird Ross Trust and Edinburgh Society of Organists.

Why see this show?

A rare chance to hear brand-new sacred choral music in one of Edinburgh's most atmospheric venues. The programme is shaped by Cecilia McDowall, one of the UK's leading voices in sacred choral composition.

Tickets

£12

Book Now
When

Monday 17 August 2026

All performances at 13:15

Duration

60 mins

Cast

20 performers

Festival

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026

Venue
Canongate Kirk

153 Canongate

View on map
Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the event?

The recital runs for 60 minutes.

Where is it held?

At Canongate Kirk, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

What is the age guidance?

Suitable for ages 5 and over.

How much are tickets?

Tickets are £12.

What will the programme include?

The winning compositions from the 2026 young composers competition, performed by the Sacred Arts Festival Singers, plus compositions by principal adjudicator Cecilia McDowall.

About This Music Performance

Sacred Arts Festival Music at Canongate Kirk: Young Composers Competition Recital is a music performance at Canongate Kirk during Edinburgh Festival 2026. Running for 60 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Enjoy live music in Edinburgh's atmospheric venues. From intimate acoustic sets to full band performances, each show offers a unique musical experience.

Venue: Canongate Kirk

Canongate Kirk is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • •Standing venues - arrive early for best spots
  • •Check if seats are unreserved or allocated
  • •Some venues allow drinks in the performance space
  • •Merchandise often available after the show

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £12

Age Guidance: 5+

Content Warnings: None

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2026

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Sacred Arts Festival Music at Canongate Kirk: Young Composers Competition Recital represents the musical diversity that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

Looking for more music shows at Edinburgh Festival 2026?

Browse all Music shows →

Similar events

More shows you might like

Loading similar events...

Data provided courtesy of the Edinburgh Festivals Listings API