“A tri-lingual cultural experience”

In 2013 the Cardinal Singers from Louisville in the United States joined the 3rd Vietnam International Choir Competition. Nick, one of the singers told us about his experiences back then we would like to share with you once again:

“I want to start off by saying that this experience was one of the most amazing ones I have had the privilege to be a part of. The Cardinal Singers traveled to Hoi An for the INTERKULTUR event almost a month ago and not a day goes past I don't think back about my experience.

It was the most unexpectedly beautiful place I have ever seen, yet one of the most busy for its size. Everywhere you looked was a moped, motorbike, bicycle or taxi. The food was fantastic and the weather, for the most part, was gorgeous. I made friends from all over - Australia, Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam. I even found some of them on Facebook and Twitter!

My favorite moment of the whole competition experience was volunteering to sing the festival song. It was to be sung in Vietnamese. Being an English speaker this was no easy feat! Utilizing our tour guide, she helped me write out the phonetic sounds and inflections of the very unique language. The Vietnamese children's choir helped us practice before the 'big show'. After singing through it surrounded by little Vietnamese kids, I turned around to see girls from one of the Indonesian choirs. As it turned out, I, an American, helped teach Indonesians how to sing the Vietnamese; tri-lingual cultural experience. Where else would I get something like that?

All in all this was one awesome trip that I hope to make again someday - be it with Cardinal Singers, another choir or even on my own. I truly hope the competition continues for years to come!”

The Vietnam International Choir Competition will be held for the 5th time already from June 7-11, 2017. Early Bird Registration Deadline ends November 7. Get all information about participation and registration here and become part of it!