Former Federal President and Radio Youth Choir visit Japan
The Wernigerode Radio Youth Choir is visiting Japan at the invitation of former German President Christian Wulff. "I initiated the meeting and exchange trip of the Wernigerode Radio Youth Choir because I am convinced that cultural exchange is of great importance, especially at a young age," said Wulff, who is the current President of the German Choral Association, in Tokyo. The Rundfunkjugendchor is a flagship for the greatness and professionalism of choral singing and music in Germany.
For around a week now, 45 singers from the National High School of Music have been traveling through the East Asian island state. "The trip has been fantastic so far. One highlight after another," said choirmaster Robert Göstl. Together with the former Federal President, the youth choir visited the memorial site of the German prisoner-of-war camp in Naruto on Japan's smallest main island, Shikoku. The choir performed Beethoven's Ninth Symphony there. The piece was performed for the first time in Asia at this location more than 100 years ago.
After meetings with a girls' and boys' choir, a visit to a school for the deaf, the German School Tokyo and the German Embassy, the highlight of the trip followed on Saturday: A concert together with Japanese musicians at the renowned Keio University. "The Wernigerode Radio Youth Choir thrilled the Japanese," concluded Wulff. The young people had reached the hearts of the hosts with their cheerfulness and in their conversations.
Choirmaster Göstl was also satisfied: "We have made friends here." The members of the choir also got to know a different culture of discipline. "Nevertheless, we have seen that they are also very well received here with their openness and relaxed manner." The choir is due to return home on Monday.
The Wernigerode Radio Youth Choir's visit to Japan has also included a collaboration with local music schools, fostering international education in choral music. The choir performed in various institutions, including a renowned university, showcasing the global appeal of German music education.
Source: www.dpa.com
