Seven school choirs from across Tāmaki Makaurau have been generously supported by the Freemasons Foundation to participate in the 2024 World Choir Games, taking place in Aotearoa New Zealand this July. This prestigious event, known for celebrating the joy and diversity of choral music, will offer these young singers an unparalleled opportunity to showcase their talents on a global stage.

Manurewa High School’s Rewaken Polycation Choir has achieved national recognition by being selected for The Big Sing Finale in 2023, marking the first time in 20 years that a choir from Manurewa has reached this level. Alongside them, the Tuaikaepau Tongan Cultural Group from the same school is renowned for their majestic performances of traditional Tongan culture, including the Lakalaka and contemporary Mate Ma’a Tonga.

Marcellin College’s Marcellin College Voices, comprising 55 passionate singers, draws from the cultural richness of South Auckland, where singing is a significant part of the community identity. Tangaroa College’s Toka Tu Moana is known for their vibrant performances, including a standout appearance at Polyfest this year. Puhinui Primary School’s choir performs a diverse range of music, from spirituals and waiata to show tunes, offering young students a chance to develop and share their talents on a world stage.

Green Bay High School’s Ngā Manawa Tītī sings a variety of genres, from jazz to waiata, providing students with exposure to a broad musical spectrum and the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers. Western Springs College’s Ngā Puna o Waiōrea, a consistently top-ranked kapa haka rōpū, is known for its powerful and moving performances that showcase months of dedicated practice.

The Freemasons' funding will cover fees and transport costs, removing significant barriers to participation and enabling these choirs to experience the magic of the World Choir Games. At the Games, students will engage with choirs from around the world, learning from diverse cultural and musical traditions. Emerging choral conductors, music teachers, and soloists within these choirs will gain confidence from watching and attending workshops with seasoned international choir directors.

“Many of our families would find the costs involved quite prohibitive but a grant such as this opens up an incredible experience for the children and myself,” says Brent Read of Puhinui School. “It is a chance for them to share their talents, learn and develop as performers as well as share their and New Zealand's culture on a world stage, a chance that many would never get to experience otherwise. I am sure it will be a cherished memory for a long time to come, and will bring a great sense of pride and accomplishment to the children and Puhinui School to take part in such an amazing event.”

The World Choir Games was established in 2000 by the German arts tourism company INTERKULTUR and has grown to become the largest choral festival and competition in the world. Held every two years, it typically attracts 200 to 400 choirs from around the globe and is known for fostering an atmosphere of creativity, unity, and joy among a host of diverse nations.

In partnership with the New Zealand Choral Federation, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, the 13th World Choir Games will take place in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland from 10 to 20 July 2024.

Learn more about Freemason’s Foundation here

For media information, interviews, and images, please contact Siobhan Waterhouse on +64 22 126 4149 or siobhan.waterhouse@wcg2024.co.nz