Shillong choir group to perform in Wales

A Correspondent

Shillong, July 3: Shillong based, Aroha Junior Choir landed in Wales on Monday to take part in the 71st choral competition in Llangollen.

The competition, “Llangollen International Musical Eisteddford” which will conclude on July 8 will see more than 40 choirs with over 4000 participants.

On Tuesday, the Aroha Junior Choir took part in a pre-competition concert event wherein the group sang the national anthem.

According to a parent of one of the singer the choir’s performance was well received. The actual competition will start from Wednesday.

Quoting the host of the competition, the parent said, “History is created this morning…not only are we having a choir from India for the first time but also the first choir to sing their (national) anthem.”

The choir is being accompanied by president of Aroha Music and Cultural Society, Pauline Warjri and her husband and former Chief Secretary of Meghalaya, Barkos Warjri.

The Aroha Junior Choir is an advanced choral music education programme for children who love to sing in a learning and performing environment. The choir draws students come from various schools, communities and churches within Shillong.

Aroha singers have a broad repertoire ranging from sacred, classical music, folk music of various parts of India and also of diverse nationalities, regions and cultures. They sing in many churches in Shillong and in various parts of India.

Their songs are thematically appropriate for specific occasions with emphasis on the gospel and on peace, friendship, nature, community building and love. Through their music they have raised awareness about environmental issues, campaigned against littering and have raised funds for many social causes. They have also performed in various parts of India and some of them have performed for the Prime Minister and the President of India, and regularly on Radio and TV. The choir has raised funds for schools, churches, hospitals and poor patients. They consider music as a means to pursue excellence in life and a great opportunity to bond with people all over the world.