WIDE RANGE: UiTM’s Chamber Choir enthralls audiences at 7th Malaysian Composer Concert Series 2016
THE Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac) was alive with a celebration of voices when the Universiti Teknologi MARA’s (UiTM) Chamber Choir (UCC) took to the stage recently.
Fresh from its victorious return from the 30th Praga Cantat International Choir Competition in Czech Republic where it won three gold awards, the choir performed the “UCC highlights” which was part of the 7th Malaysian Composer Concert Series 2016 organised by the UiTM Faculty of Music.
The group demonstrated a variety of genres, styles, and languages from different countries. The song programme was not only for audience consumption but also acted as an educational experience in public performance.
UCC conductor Dr Masashi Kishimoto said performing requires analysing the music which includes determining its theoretical approach, understanding the song’s background through research, and grasping different languages. Only by fulfilling these criteria will the performer be able to present an authentic sound.
“This year’s concert programme material was chosen from Malaysia, Indonesia, India, the Philippines, Japan, USA, Czech, Italy, Finland and Greece. The preparation was a long process starting with the song selection, vigorous training and rehearsals to ensure that the students are well-equipped during the concert,” he said.
All UCC members are the faculty’s students who are studying different programmes such as music education, composition and performance.
Many activities have been lined up for next year, with one plan to bring the group to Akashi, Japan. The Akashi Art Foundation had invited the team for a cultural exchange programme. The team is also trying to raise funds to take part in another international choral competition in Europe in October.
“This will be a great opportunity for the team and UiTM but above all, it is also an interesting prospect for the Malaysian music industry. Up until now, there haven’t been many musicians and choirs that excel abroad, which means the international audience are still curious about Malaysian culture. The UCC will be a great ambassador in bridging our culture and giving it exposure internationally,” said Masashi.