Baca juga dalam Bahasa Indonesia

After successfully carrying out a cultural mission entitled Indonesia Kirana 2017 in Austria last July, Unpad Choir got the honor of external parties abroad. This time, Unpad Choir is trusted by the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia for South Korea to be the performers of The 72nd Independence Day Commemoration of the Republic of Indonesia at Lotte Hotel Seoul, South Korea on Thursday (28/9).

The team who just won the first category of folksong and runners-up of the choral works category in the choir competition titled 54th International Competition of Choral Singing in Austria brought two songs from South Korea and ten regional songs from various provinces in Indonesia.

The performance begins at 7 pm South Korean time. Under the direction of conductor Arvin Zeinullah, Unpad Choir opened its performance by singing the South Korean national anthem Aegukga and South Korean song Arirang. Unpad Choir also echoes some traditional songs from several regions in Indonesia such as Yamko Rambe Yamko, Paris Barantai, Cingcangkeling, Hela Rotan and Soleram. The song was immediately echoed in the building where the performance took place. Percussion games and the addition of choreography in some songs make appearances attractive.

Umar Hadi, Indonesian Ambassador to South Korea explained. The performance of Unpad Choir is the first Indonesian choir performance to be held in South Korea in the framework of the commemoration. He hopes that similar events will continue to invite choirs from Indonesia with the aim of introducing Indonesian culture to South Korea. 

“This performance is indeed the first time held here. From the beginning, we did aim to introduce Indonesian chants to South Korea. We as citizens of Indonesia should also be proud because we have a diverse culture, both in music and dance, “he said.

He also added related performance of Unpad Choir in the event. He felt the energy of the performance was very strong and the harmonization created was felt.

“The energy from the appearance was very pronounced. Harmonization of sounds displayed members are also very audible. One thing that makes me more salute is the stamina of the members of Unpad Choir who stay awake, although they sing many songs. Apparently it has been honed from the previous exercise, “he explained. 

The event was held by the Indonesian Embassy in South Korea, in cooperation with the South Korean Government in order to strengthen bilateral and diplomatic relations between South Korea and Indonesia which has been proclaimed the first time since 1944. The event is also aimed at establishing relationships with some parties who have established cooperation with Korea South. The event was attended by the Indonesian Embassy in South Korea, Indonesian citizens and some Indonesian officials living in South Korea, as well as some officials of South Korean Government.

(Primagung)