Folklore from around the world

The diversity of choral music sounded yesterday evening at the first Celebration Concert of the World Choir Games 2016 in the Concert Hall 'Festivalny' in Sochi. Four choirs from China, South Africa, the host nation Russia and Indonesia presented choral music from their homeland.

The evening started with an outstanding performance of Scenic Folklore from the land of smiles, China. The Student Choir of Nankai University – a 2014 World Choir Games Champion – told a story about joy, harm, fight and piece. With various costumes and lively stage presence the singers easily captivated the audience.

Started from Asia we went to Africa. For 20 minutes the ‘St. Stithians Boys' College Duke of Cornwall Singers’ from Johannesburg / Gauteng took the audience in this country, in which singing belongs to the solid traditions: South Africa. The boys aged 14 to 18 presented typical Gospels and sprayed pure joy with rhythmic clapping and a dance choreography in rubber boots. The mood in Festivalny was terrific.

In contrast to African songs traditional pieces from different parts of the host country of Russia followed. The Folklore Choir Stavropol inspired the audience not only with an impressive vocal power but also with beautiful dresses.

Another story was staged musically and theatrically by the Indonesian choir 'Paduan Suara Mahasiswa Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta'. It didn’t conclude with a happy ending, but ensured perfect enthusiasm in the audience.

Impressions of the Celebration Concert: