Vancouver-based a cappella ensemble Sweet Scarlet has returned from the 2026 World Choir Games in Helsingborg, Sweden, with two Gold Awards.
According to the news release by Sweet Scarlet, the six-woman, self-directed ensemble earned Gold in both the Chamber Choirs and Vocal Ensembles of Equal Voices and Contemporary Music categories. The group placed first in the Chamber Choirs and Vocal Ensembles category.
The World Choir Games, held Aug. 6 to 16, brought approximately 8,500 singers from more than 160 choirs and more than 40 countries to Helsingborg for 11 days of competition, performances and connection through music, according to the news release.
Sweet Scarlet was formed 14 years ago when six Vancouver women came together through a shared love of singing. The ensemble is known for its harmonies, creative arrangements and performances, with all six members contributing to its musical and creative decisions.
“Standing together in Sweden and hearing that we had earned gold in both of our categories was a moment we’ll never forget,” Sweet Scarlet member Heather Ray said in the news release.
Ray also credited the community that supported the ensemble through fundraising, concert attendance, donations, and encouragement. “We felt like we brought a little piece of our community with us to Sweden,” Ray said, according to the news release. “So many people supported this dream — financially, by coming to our shows, sharing our story and simply cheering us on.”
Sweet Scarlet will return to the stage locally on Saturday, Dec. 19, at Lynn Valley United Church in North Vancouver. The concert will give local audiences an opportunity to hear the six voices that represented Canada at the World Choir Games in Helsingborg.
