#WCG2018 – Meet the Jury

Renowned choral experts from 28 different nations are going to evaluate the competition performances at the World Choir Games 2018 in Tshwane, South Africa. Time to learn more about them!

10 questions with Jennifer Tham (Singapore)

One of Jennifer Tham’s numerous tasks includes her work for the World Choir Council, where she represents Singapore, the Asia Pacific Working Committee and the International Federation for Choral Music. As the Artistic Director and conductor of the SYC Ensemble Singers she is also closely tied to the international choral community. Her engagement was honoured in 2012 with the Cultural Medallion, Singapore’s highest arts accolade.

Who or what is your greatest inspiration in life?

My mother - she taught me that anything worth doing was worth doing well. She was Singapore’s first Queen’s Guide, and gives all her energy to everything she does.

The children in my choirs - they are so full of possibilities, it is wonderful to watch them grow strong and believe that they can do anything.

What would you be doing today, if you were not in choral music?

A journalist; I love stories and the opportunity to share them with people.

When did you last sing?

Last night, in rehearsal with my choir!

What is the best (and funniest) story to tell from your choral life?

Twenty years ago, half of the members of my choir came down with chicken pox just a week before an international competition. We had traveled so far and worked so hard, so we still went on stage - with everybody in more make-up to cover the spots!

Which song never fails to move you?

So many to choose from!

Brahms: Ein Deutsches Requiem

John Legend: All of me

With whom would you like to sing a duet once in your life?

Donny Osmond.

Bryn Terfel.

What is the greatest piece of choral literature that has ever been written?

Anything by Bach.

Lauridsen: Madrigali (Six “Fire Songs” on Italian Renaissance Poems)

Acting as adjudicator at choir competitions, what is your main focus of evaluation?

Healthy singing with good intonation, under purposeful artistic direction.

What is your personal advice to choirs/conductors competing at the World Choir Games?

Give it your all, and be thankful for the people you sing with in this world choir family.

What’s the most useless talent you have?

I'm sure there’s a use for being able to cross my eyes and smell my shin.