The 63rd All-Japan Choral Competition

   There was the final round of the 63rd All-Japan Choral Competition in Hyogo, Japan. The junior high and high school categories were done a month early, and it was the time for colligate, work, general chamber, and general large choir categories. Since there were two colligate choirs performed my “Agnus Dei (from Missa pro Pace),” I was able to get tickets for all the performances.

   One of the interesting categories is “work choir.” A work choir is something that I only find in Japan. This is a club activity choir at work. There were choirs from banks, manufacturing companies, city halls, and etc, and the singers are employees of those companies or organizations. It is very nice for companies or employers to support this kind of club activity. An old saying, “all work and no play makes Jack dull boy,” is certainly true. People who have good balance between work, hobby, and family life are the happiest people, and I am sure that they are also the most productive people at work.

   For many reasons, among the all the hobbies one can choose, choral singing is certainly one of the greatest ones. Congratulations to those who won, congratulations to those who were able to sing on the one of the greatest concert hall in Japan at the final round, and congratulations to those who love singing choral music!

 I also attend the reheasal of Tsuru University Mixed Chorus which performed by Agnus Dei. Here is the rehearsal recording mp3 and the YouTube video. Enjoy!