Pretoria - The World Choir Games, the “Olympic Games” of the global choral community, will be hosted by the City of Tshwane in 2018.
The announcement of Tshwane as the official host city was made in June by Interkultur, the organising body of the games. The World Choir Games, held every two years, is the largest choir competition on the international calendar.
According to the organisers, this is a prestigious event not only for the capital city but for South Africa and the continent. This is the first time an African country will host the games.
“Since its beginning, choirs from South Africa have been fascinating the audience and singers from all over the world at the Interkultur events... South Africa is a land of choirs, a land of singing,” said Interkultur President Günter Titsch, announcing the City of Tshwane as the 2018 host city.
Music is a universally shared language that has the ability to cross all boundaries, helping to build a sense of well-being and social cohesion – a message of peace and a much-needed refuge, particularly in times of crisis and conflict across the globe.
This is a perfect fit with the National Development Plan and Tshwane Vision 2055, which talk of creating spaces that are liveable, resilient and inclusive. The capital city has set out a long-term path, Vision 2055, which emphasises the building of a strong, socially cohesive community and ensuring that all citizens are included in all facets of life in the city.
While Tshwane has a rich tradition of choral music, it is also a dynamic and cosmopolitan meeting place, where cultures meet and take time to share. It is a city that reflects the essence of South Africa.
At the moment, the Stellenbosch University Choir is in first position in the Interkultur World Rankings. The University of Pretoria Camerata is ranked 21st.
A South African delegation, along with City of Tshwane officials, is currently attending the 2016 World Choir Games in Sochi, Russia, to officially take over as host city during the closing ceremony. This will give the delegation an ideal opportunity to showcase what South Africa and the City of Tshwane have to offer participants.
The City of Tshwane believes this international event, starting from 4 to 14 July 2018, will play an invaluable role in providing opportunities to celebrate arts and culture in the city, nationally and across the continent.
With some 20 000 visitors attending the games, the City of Tshwane expects a boost to its national and local economy and the opening up of opportunities for job creation.
The City of Tshwane also has a proven track record in hosting many prestigious international events and meetings, including the annual Tshwane Open golf tournament and rugby, cricket and soccer World Cup fixtures.
World Choir Games
From 2000, the biennial World Choir Games have brought together cultures and nations from all over the world to meet and sing together, becoming the world’s largest international choir competition.
Amateur choirs take part in the 11-day event, performing in competitions and friendship concerts, attending workshops and master classes, and participating in massed choral projects.
Befitting of an international event of this stature, the Games have opening and closing ceremonies as well as award ceremonies.
Interkultur
The Interkultur organisation is made up of non-profit and commercial bodies that support cultural development on an international level. The Interkultur network is made up of some 120 000 choirs and choir associations.
For more information: www.interkultur.com/facts/world-choir-games. – SAnews.gov.za
