In this issue: Highlights from World Symposium / John Rosser re-elected to IFCM Board / The Next Big Thing 2023 / Conducting tutors at Choral Connect / New Te Reo Māori award at The Big Sing regionals / Igelese Ete teaches singing to the Hurricanes / AGM reminder / Musica International's Virtual Choral Library.
Kia ora <<First Name>>,
The title of this month’s eBreve is a reference to the 2023 World Symposium on Choral Music, with its theme Changing Horizons. I was privileged to be among a delegation of eight New Zealanders who attended this vibrant and stimulating event last week in Istanbul. Alongside us were a total of 2,500 performers and presenters from around the globe.The Symposium included 55 choirs performing in a total of 44 concerts across 11 venues, as well as a total of 96 keynote addresses, presentations, open rehearsals, workshops, reading sessions and panel discussions.
Elise Bradley and Jono Palmer’s session on cross-cultural collaborations in Aotearoa drew a keen audience and we'll be reporting on that in next month's eBreve. If you’re keen to hear more about some of the concerts and sessions at WSCM2023, join our ACD-hosted Zoom on Wednesday 17 May when the Kiwi contingent will talk about their favourite sessions and the learnings they gained. Details are on the ACD Facebook page.
A recurring theme among the keynote addresses and panel discussions was the importance of breaking down barriers between different singing cultures – whether they be differences of age, race or musical genre. Rather than talking about choral music, the European Choral Association, for example, now uses the term ‘collective singing’ to embrace all styles (though they opted to retain the name of their organisation).
Using music as a tool to bring about social change was another common thread. Turkish keynote speaker Melih Fereli referred to the devastation and turmoil the world has been going through and urged musicians to use their powers of persuasion through music to effect the change in our mindset that is needed to establish lasting peace and respect for all life on our planet. He said: “We need to equip future generations with an open mind – we can do this through, and with, music.”
I know many of us who attended WSCM2023 will be keen to explore some of these themes with our fellow choir leaders and singers here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Choral Connect and Sing Aotearoa in September/October will provide opportunities for breaking down barriers and stretching our horizons. Be there to be part of the change.
Ngā mihi nui
Christine Argyle
Chief Executive New Zealand Choral Federation Te Kotahitanga Manu Reo o Aotearoa
Highlights from WCSM 2023 This 90-second highlights reel from Day 1 of the World Symposium on Choral Music gives a taste of some of the many and varied elements of this five-day event in Istanbul. Look out for NZ conductor Fiona Wilson (seated in black dress at 0:43) practising her conducting gesture during the masterclasses she attended!
John Rosser re-elected to IFCM Congratulations to John Rosser, who was re-elected for another 3-year term on the Board of the International Federation of Choral Music at the recent IFCM General Assembly in Istanbul. John is a strong advocate for the Oceania region. Click here to see who else is on the Board of IFCM...
The Next Big Thing '23 We're rolling out further massed singing events for singers aged 18-25 this year in Auckland, Christchurch and Dunedin. And a special one-day event - I Sing Because! - will appeal to young Southland singers. Save the dates, watch this space, sign up to the mailing list, and share with your friends! Click through to find out more...
Conducting tutors at CC '23 Dr Karen Grylls, Jono Palmer and Dr Andrew Withington will join international guest Dr Rollo Dilworth as conducting tutors at this year's convention. Click through to read their bios and to explore our Choral Connect pages. Registrations are now open for both Choral Connect and Sing Aotearoa.
Celebrating Te Reo at The Big Sing We are pleased to announce that at The Big Sing Regionals this year, Auckland and Canterbury will be joined by all our other regions in offering a trophy for the best performance of a piece in te reo Māori. Check out the regional dates...
Teaching singing to the Hurricanes Iglese Ete - NZCF Board Member, and Co- Artistic Director for Sing Aotearoa - took time out from his job at Massey University's College of Creative Arts to teach a Fijian hymn to the Hurricanes Super Rugby Team. Click to watch.
"Daughters of Orpheus" The Medena Ensemble hold an Open Workshop.
Looking for a new musical challenge? Musica Balkanica in Christchurch seeks new members..
Join the Christchurch City Choir in a celebration of Mother's Day.
Seeking expressions of interest for the position of Musical Director, a paid, part time position covering weekly evening rehearsals in Papakura and three annual concerts.
Voices New Zealand Chamber Choir invites you to a concert of early music.
Seeking enthusiastic musician to be Choir Leader for non-auditioned choir of 7-12 year olds.
