© INTERKULTUR

World Choir Games 2018 to open in South Africa

More than 16 000 participants will start an 11-day adventure in the land of dancing, rhythm and singing

World Choir Games 2018

The wait has come to an end as July 4 marks the Opening Day of the 10th World Choir Games 2018. More than 16 000 participants from over 60 countries are travelling to Tshwane for this highly anticipated choral music extravaganza. This largest international choir competition in the world takes place for the first time on African soil and the excitement of participants, visitors and locals is already perceptible during the days prior to the start and will reach the climax at the Opening Ceremony at the SUN Arena in Tshwane.

INTERKULTUR President Günter Titsch emphasizes: “It’s our immense pleasure to hold the 10th anniversary event of the World Choir Games and also the 30th jubilee of INTERKULTUR here in South Africa. It has been a long-cherished wish of choirs from all over the world to experience the birthplace of music, rhythm and dancing first hand. On the other hand we feel honored that so many South African choirs have participated in our events all over the world and will now welcome the international singers finally in their home country.”

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary edition of the event a new symbol of the World Choir Games will be introduced during the Opening Ceremony: the Choral Olympic flame.

Senior Artistic Director Prof. Dr. Ralf Eisenbeiss: "The Opening Ceremony at the 10th World Choir Games will be a very special one, since this anniversary edition will give new impetus to the event: The Choral Olympic Flame that will be introduced at the Opening Ceremony for the first time brings us even closer to the Olympic idea. It makes me proud that this new tradition will be created in South Africa and continued at all future World Choir Games events worldwide."

As a tribute to Africa, the birthplace of humankind, the flame will be ignited for the first time on July 4, 2018 and passed over to representatives of each continent as part of the ceremony.  

Another highlight at the Opening Ceremony will be the world premiere of the new World Choir Games Anthem: “One Voice”, composed by the world famous John Rutter, British composer of choral music and Honorary Artistic President of INTERKULTUR, translating the event’s slogan Various Voices – One Harmony into music.

As a prelude to their upcoming Choir Olympic adventure all participants will be warmly welcomed by the host city and country in the Opening Ceremony. South Africa is going to present itself by staging a great and flamboyant performance and showcase the richness and variety of the South African culture.

The World Choir Games will last from July 4-14 presenting competition performances, open singing sessions, informal Friendship and high-level Celebration Concerts, a Parade of Nations, a World Choir Village and many more activities throughout the city.

More information about the event is available at www.tshwane2018.org and www.wcg2018.com. You can also follow the event on our Facebook and Instagram channels!

NOTICIAS CORRESPONDIENTES