Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
CHOICE Children’s Choir, comprising talented young singers aged 8 to 15, was bade farewell at a send-off concert as they prepare to represent Zimbabwe at the 11th CANTA AL MAR Festival Coral International in Spain.
The choir’s youthful energy and dedication to showcasing Zimbabwean culture and talent have garnered attention and support from the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ).
The choir’s primary focus is on singing, but it also incorporates traditional Zimbabwean dance into its performances, highlighting the deep connection between music and movement in African culture.
As the choir prepares to take the stage in Spain, one of the choir members Karen Chimuti said they are filled with excitement and anticipation for what is in store for them.
“This performance is expected to showcase the best of Zimbabwe’s musical talent and leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. With our passion, energy, and dedication to the craft, we are so a ure to make our country proud,” she said.
The group’s chorister said the blend of traditional and modern styles is a testament to the choir’s versatility and creativity.
“By bringing together children from diverse backgrounds, the choir provides a platform for young talent to shine and promotes cultural exchange and understanding.
“This is a great accomplishment for our children who will represent the nation, I am so proud of all of our hard work and having raised the Zimbabwean flag high,” he said.
Napoleon Nyanhi, Executive Director of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) handed off the green blazers to the choir members.
Nyanhi said the nation is proud of how the choir will put Zimbabwe on the global stage.
“Look at that! Enjoy this. I think there’s something about the way it resonates, but at the same time, there’s also a prime aspect of showcasing an authentic traditional piece presented in a style of class and also done by the very new generation.
“So that was one of the highlights for the young people. And also, I think it’s essential for our children to be able to perform the classics like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s works, and they do it so well. But they also do our traditional stuff brilliantly, with a lot of dedication and care.
“I don’t have much to say, I just want to congratulate the young people and the students. As you go to Spain and other European countries on your tour, you’re going to have the experience of a lifetime.
“I’m very excited that the children are being exposed to such experiences at a young age. They’ll be able to bring back what they learn and share it with others. I congratulate all the parents who supported their children in this endeavor. We should encourage our children to pursue their passions, whether it’s in the arts, painting, drawing, dancing, or singing,” he said.
The choir made their first international appearance at a competition in South Africa in 2018.
Their international success continued as in 2023, they competed at the International Lisbon Sings Choir Competition, securing two silver medals in the Championship Categories, standing shoulder to shoulder with adult choirs from Europe.
They were the only African choir in the competition. In 2024, they took part in the Sing for Gold — World Choral Cup in Spain, where they won Zimbabwe’s first-ever gold medal in the Championship Category, along with an additional silver medal.
Since 2012 the annual festival “Canta al mar – Festival Coral International” in Calella and Barcelona has been a highlight attraction for countless choirs from all around the world.
