Singing as One Voice: Dolce Chanticleer Choir on Their Prize-Winning Alleluia
- Feb 25
- 3 min read
Dolce Chanticleer Choir from Malaysia was awarded the First Prize for their choral performance of Elaine Hagenberg’s Alleluia at the UK International Music Competition, 2025 Season 3. The season ran from 30 April to 30 July 2025, with the official results announced on 21 August 2025. Following this achievement, Dolce Chanticleer Choir shared more about the ensemble’s formation, artistic vision, and the collaborative spirit that shapes their choral work. In the interview below, the group reflects on their musical journey, rehearsal process, and the inspiration behind their award-winning performance.
Dolce Chanticleer is a premier vocal ensemble from Sarawak, recognised for its refined harmonies and dynamic interpretations of classical, contemporary, and indigenous repertoire.Under the musical direction of conductor, vocal coach, and accompanist Sabrina Tnay, the ensemble brings together seasoned vocalists and emerging talents, united by a shared passion for expressive choral artistry.Having achieved a distinction in ABRSM’s Advanced Choral Singing examination, Dolce Chanticleer has gained recognition for its musical excellence and heartfelt performances across a diverse range of genres — from sacred classics and Disney favourites to jazz and Malaysian folk music.
Could you tell us a bit about how your choir was formed and what singing together means to your group?
Dolce Chanticleer Choir:
"Our choir was formed out of a shared love for singing and a desire to sing more songs together, especially choral repertoire that we truly enjoy. Singing together means more than just making music. It’s about sharing the same passion with a group of people who love singing and are eager to grow and perform together. We also wanted to give back to the community by using music to connect with others. There is a huge joy in making music as one voice and being ready to share that joy with a wider audience through performances and concerts."
Regarding your award-winning video of Alleluia by Ellen Hagenberg, could you tell us how your choir prepared this piece and what the rehearsal process was like? Were there any memorable moments during rehearsals?
Dolce Chanticleer Choir:
"I was first drawn to Elaine Hagenberg’s Alleluia because of its beautiful harmonisation. The arrangement immediately stood out to me. The opening is very touching, and the harmonic writing is both rich and sensitive. As the piece develops, the music becomes lyrical yet soothing, and it has a way of reaching something personal in everyone who sings it. During rehearsals, we focused greatly on sound blending, balancing the voice parts, and shaping the musical phrasing so that the piece could truly shine. The descant at the end was a highlight of the work and also played to one of our choir’s strengths, as we place strong emphasis on healthy high-note technique. This made the final section especially exciting for the singers. The lyrics allowed our choir members to form meaningful emotional connections with the piece, and over time, rehearsals became a space where they bonded not just musically but personally. Some of our most memorable moments came from hearing the harmonies finally settle and watching the choir grow in confidence as the music came together."
Is there anyone your choir would like to thank—such as your conductor, teachers, parents, or other supporters?
Dolce Chanticleer Choir:
"We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our conductor, Madam Sabrina Tnay, for her dedication and tireless efforts in preparing us for this opportunity. She is an inspiring and caring conductor who consistently emphasises healthy singing techniques while ensuring that every member feels welcomed and valued in the choir. Under her guidance, we work towards a shared goal, that is to sing with all our hearts while maintaining the highest musical standards.Her attention to detail and unwavering commitment are key reasons behind our achievements and the recognition we have received, including this invitation to be interviewed. Without her leadership and passion, Dolce Chanticleer would not exist."
