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After successfully conducting cultural missions titled Indonesia Kirana 2017 in Austria last July, Universitas Padjadjaran Choir (UNPAD Choir) received honors from external parties abroad. This time, Unpad Choir was trusted by the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) for South Korea to become a performer in The 72nd Independience Day Commemoration of the Republic of Indonesia at Lotte Hotel Seoul, South Korea on Thursday (28/9).

The team who recently earned the first title of the folksong and runner-up category choral works 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 parts of Indonesia.

Appearances start at 19.00 South Korea time. Under the direction of the conductor Arvin Zeinullah, UNPAD Choir opened its appearance in the show by singing the national anthem of the South Korean Aegukga and the South Korean regional song Arirang. Unpad Choir also echoed several traditional songs from several corners in Indonesia such as Yamko Rambe Yamko, Paris Barantai, Cingcangkeling, Hela Rattan, and Soleram. The song instantly echoed in the building where the show took place. Percussion games and the addition of choreography in some tracks make the appearance look attractive. 

Umar Hadi, Indonesian ambassador to South Korea explained. The performance of UNPAD Choir was the appearance of Indonesian choir which was first performed in South Korea for the commemoration. He hopes that similar events will be able to continue to invite the choir from Indonesia with the intention of introducing Indonesian culture to South Korea.

"This appearance is only first held here. Since the beginning, we are aiming to introduce Indonesian local singing to South Korea. We as residents of Indonesia should also be proud because we have a diverse culture, both in music and dance, "he said.

He also added to the performance of UNPAD choir in the event. He felt that the energy from the appearance was very strong and the harmonization was felt.

"The energy of the appearance was very felt. In terms of sound harmonization the members displayed are very audible. One thing that makes me more salute is the stamina of UNPAD Choir members who stay awake even though they sing a lot of 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 had been established for the first time since 1944. The event was also aimed to establish a relationship with several parties who have established cooperation with South Korea. The event was attended by the ranks of the Indonesian South Korean EMBASSY, Indonesian citizen and some Indonesians residing in South Korea, as well as some government officials of South Korea.

(Primagung)