South Auckland Choir Shines at World Choir Games: Cultural Representation on the Global Stage
The World Choir Games recently took place in Tāmaki Makaurau, and one choir stood out among the rest – the Rewaken Polycation Choir from Manurewa High School. This talented group, consisting of students from various cultural backgrounds, came together to showcase their love for music and express themselves on a global platform.
Diverse Cultural Representation
Led by their experienced choirmaster and composer Sola Vuna, the choir embodies the motto of “one band, one sound, one family, one love.” This sense of unity and connection shines through in their performances, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of their members from Tonga, Samoa, and the Cook Islands.
Student Perspective
Student Charlie Miller highlighted the importance of unity within the choir, emphasizing that despite their diverse backgrounds, they are all connected as one people. For students like Louise Ponifasio, participating in the World Choir Games is a privilege and an opportunity to represent their Polynesian culture on a global stage.
Remarkable Performance
During their performance at the Auckland Town Hall, the Rewaken Polycation Choir captivated the audience with their soulful, gospel-inspired songs. Despite the absence of their choirmaster at the forefront, the choir members exuded confidence and passion, earning them a standing ovation and high praise from the crowd.
Heartfelt Recognition
Following their performance, the choir received a silver award, just narrowly missing out on gold. However, the pride and joy reflected in their eyes as they left the stage were immeasurable. Their spontaneous performance in the foyer, met with enthusiasm from their international counterparts, truly showcased the impact of their cultural representation.
Future Endeavors
While the World Choir Games may be over, the Rewaken Polycation Choir’s journey is far from finished. With more choir events on the horizon, this achievement against the best in the world will serve as a lasting memory for these talented teens as they continue to pursue their passion for music and cultural expression.
In a world where diversity and unity are celebrated, the Rewaken Polycation Choir stands as a shining example of the power of music to bridge cultural divides and create unforgettable moments on the global stage.