University Choir Antwerp

Universitair Koor Antwerpen, Belgium

Choir presentation

The University of Antwerp Choir, « Universitair Koor Antwerpen » or simply « UKA », was founded on March 13, 1989.

Since then, UKA has met weekly, embarking on an enjoyable exploration of various forms of choral music.

Initially led by Frans Cuypers for the first three years, the musical direction was passed to the talented Dirk De Nef in 1992, who continues to lead the choir with unwavering dedication and passion.

Before 2009, UKA comprised members from diverse backgrounds, including staff and choristers from outside the university. Subsequently, and thanks to its growing popularity among students, the choir evolved into a choir created by and for students. This evolution was driven by the members’ enthusiasm, in line with the University of Antwerp’s vision.

Since then, the choir has not only recruited new choristers but has also elevated its ambition and aspirations.

In just a few years, the number of members grew from about twenty to an impressive 75.

Despite the difficulties encountered during the Covid-19 pandemic, UKA demonstrated resilience. Like many choirs, it lost numerous choristers, but today, it has once again surpassed 60 members.

Its renown within the University of Antwerp was already significant before the pandemic, with the choir regularly gracing graduation ceremonies, receptions, and other festivities with much-appreciated musical interludes, complemented by full-fledged concerts each semester.

Awards & distinctions

The most notable events in its history include the grand celebration of the University of Antwerp’s 10th anniversary at the Antwerp Opera in 2013 and the prestigious awarding of honorary doctorates in 2014.

Today, after the pandemic, the choir’s popularity is once again on the rise.

In 2023, UKA had the honor of participating in the graduation ceremonies for the Faculties of Sciences and Specialized Medicine, the award ceremony for emeritus professors of the Faculty of Business and Economics, and the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences.

Beyond the university walls, UKA has also gained recognition.

In March 2016, the choir collaborated with Arti Vocali for a captivating performance of Carl Orff’s « Carmina Burana » at deSingel in Antwerp.

Spring 2017 marked a significant chapter in UKA’s history, with its musical journey including participation in several choral competitions.

The choir participated in the Lier competition, where it won the « Excellence with distinction » award.

In July, UKA made its international debut at the 3rd European Choir Games in Riga, Latvia, where it earned a Level 10 Silver Diploma.

Two years later, in Gothenburg, Sweden, the choir achieved another remarkable feat by winning a Level 8 Silver Diploma.

The same year, it performed on stage alongside the renowned Hugh Jackman at the Antwerp Sports Palace for his world tour « The Man, The Music, The Show » and performed three songs with him.

UKA’s journey, marked by resilience, a musical path of excellence, and deep community engagement, continues to resonate with a very broad audience.

Direction: Dirk De Nef

Belgium

Antwerp

listen

Would you like to participate with your choir in our festivals? Go on tour in Europe? Submit your application!

University Choir Antwerp

Universitair Koor Antwerpen, Belgium

Choir presentation

The University of Antwerp Choir, « Universitair Koor Antwerpen » or simply « UKA », was founded on March 13, 1989.

Since then, UKA has met weekly, embarking on an enjoyable exploration of various forms of choral music.

Initially led by Frans Cuypers for the first three years, the musical direction was passed to the talented Dirk De Nef in 1992, who continues to lead the choir with unwavering dedication and passion.

Before 2009, UKA comprised members from diverse backgrounds, including staff and choristers from outside the university. Subsequently, and thanks to its growing popularity among students, the choir evolved into a choir created by and for students. This evolution was driven by the members’ enthusiasm, in line with the University of Antwerp’s vision.

Since then, the choir has not only recruited new choristers but has also elevated its ambition and aspirations.

In just a few years, the number of members grew from about twenty to an impressive 75.

Despite the difficulties encountered during the Covid-19 pandemic, UKA demonstrated resilience. Like many choirs, it lost numerous choristers, but today, it has once again surpassed 60 members.

Its renown within the University of Antwerp was already significant before the pandemic, with the choir regularly gracing graduation ceremonies, receptions, and other festivities with much-appreciated musical interludes, complemented by full-fledged concerts each semester.

Awards & distinctions

The most notable events in its history include the grand celebration of the University of Antwerp’s 10th anniversary at the Antwerp Opera in 2013 and the prestigious awarding of honorary doctorates in 2014.

Today, after the pandemic, the choir’s popularity is once again on the rise.

In 2023, UKA had the honor of participating in the graduation ceremonies for the Faculties of Sciences and Specialized Medicine, the award ceremony for emeritus professors of the Faculty of Business and Economics, and the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences.

Beyond the university walls, UKA has also gained recognition.

In March 2016, the choir collaborated with Arti Vocali for a captivating performance of Carl Orff’s « Carmina Burana » at deSingel in Antwerp.

Spring 2017 marked a significant chapter in UKA’s history, with its musical journey including participation in several choral competitions.

The choir participated in the Lier competition, where it won the « Excellence with distinction » award.

In July, UKA made its international debut at the 3rd European Choir Games in Riga, Latvia, where it earned a Level 10 Silver Diploma.

Two years later, in Gothenburg, Sweden, the choir achieved another remarkable feat by winning a Level 8 Silver Diploma.

The same year, it performed on stage alongside the renowned Hugh Jackman at the Antwerp Sports Palace for his world tour « The Man, The Music, The Show » and performed three songs with him.

UKA’s journey, marked by resilience, a musical path of excellence, and deep community engagement, continues to resonate with a very broad audience.

Direction: Dirk De Nef

Belgium

Antwerp

listen

listen

Would you like to participate with your choir in our festivals? Go on tour in Europe? Submit your application!