UGCY 2026 was a night to remember, with university gospel choirs from across the UK battling it out for that number one spot!

Volney Morgan kicked off the night by turning the entire auditorium into a huge choir, leaving everyone in the mood for an awesome night of gospel music.

University of Leicester Revival Choir opened the night with great energy and confidence, declaring that we are blessed by the love of Jesus.

The next three performances were from newly formed choirs making their debut appearances at UGCY. Manchester Harmony Gospel Choir overcame their nerves and sang with conviction of Jesus’s victory over death. UGCY’s first Scottish competitors Edinburgh University Gospel Choir brough some fierce energy as they told of what it would be like when we get to heaven.

Sunderland University Gospel Choir gave a dramatic and thoroughly engaging medley with joyous enthusiasm, celebrating Jesus’s resurrection.

“It was very difficult not to enjoy what we saw on stage.” – Russell Scott.

Closing the first half, University of Birmingham Gospel Choir overcame a technical mishap to deliver a strong performance with energy and flair.

The next choir to perform was the small but mighty Loughborough University Gospel Choir, who were also making their UGCY debut. It was clear to see that this choir had worked hard and was doing it all for the glory of God.

Portsmouth Gospel Choir nailed beautiful harmonies and put forward an altogether polished performance.

“From the vocals to the musicianship to how you guys looked… you smashed it.” – Volney Morgan

BIMM Birmingham Gospel Choir gave a captivating performance that seamlessly blended dynamic vocals with a strong band to share the gospel. Their set moved hearts, with a standing ovation readily given by the audience.

“You guys sound way too seasoned… like you’re a band already on the road touring and just stopped by here tonight.” – Limoblaze.

Durham University Gospel Choir impressed the judges with their vocal prowess and skill for soft singing in their gently powerful performance.

And last but by no means least, Warwick University Gospel Choir opened with a stunning soloist and gave a fierce choir performance boldly declaring they are not ashamed of the gospel.

“You guys really, clearly put the work in and that showed on stage really well.” – Anu Omideyi

Before the results were revealed, all ten choirs joined together on stage to form a mass choir and raised a hallelujah in perfect harmony.

And the winners are…

Second runner up, Sunderland University Gospel Choir

First runner up, Portsmouth University Gospel Choir

And the winner of UGCY 2026 is BIMM Birmingham Gospel Choir