This choral event, part of the Encontres 2026 campaign promoted by the Federation of Choirs of the Valencian Community, aims to foster musical exchange between groups across the region. The concert, scheduled for 9 PM, will offer a journey through various aesthetics and traditions of the choral repertoire.

The first part of the evening will be performed by the Coral Illice Augusta, directed by Cristian Fernández Rocamora. This group will present a varied program including pieces such as Aromas Ilicitanos by Francisco Mendiola and the premiere of Habaneras Barcarola by Elena Martínez González. They will also perform works like L’arbre vell by Andreu Soler, Ubi Caritas by Ola Gjeilo, the African American spiritual Soon Ah Will Be Done arranged by William L. Dawson, the Renaissance madrigal Weep, O Mine Eyes by John Bennet, and Dirait-on by Morten Lauridsen, with piano accompaniment by Belén Caparrós.

In the second part, the Cor Ars Nova of Xàbia, under the direction of Rubén Penadés Silvestre, will present a program focused on contemporary international choral music. Works by renowned composers such as Ave Generosa by Ola Gjeilo, O sacrum convivium by Xabier Sarasola, Only in Sleep by Ēriks Ešenvalds, Even when he is silent by Kim André Arnesen, and Earth Song by Frank Ticheli will be performed. This repertoire combines spirituality, lyricism, and highly sensitive choral writing.

The Ars Nova Festival, celebrating its twenty-fourth edition, continues to consolidate its position as one of the highlights of Xàbia's musical calendar. The event promotes the dissemination of choral repertoire and cultural exchange among choirs, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy a musical journey that connects different eras, aesthetics, and choral traditions.