Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, July 4, 2024
Around 11,000 singers from 40 countries will be taking to the stage in Auckland next week for the 13th World Choir Games, generating important economic and cultural benefits for the city.
Economic Development Minister Melissa Lee said, “It is the biggest choral competition and festival in the world, so I am absolutely thrilled that New Zealand gets to play host for the first time.”
“As a UNESCO City of Music, the Games are also an incredible opportunity for Auckland to showcase to the world the choirs of the Pacific and celebrate Māori, Pacific, and Kiwi culture,” Ms Lee said.
“In addition to its focus on rebuilding the economy, the Government remains committed to supporting and building New Zealand’s arts and cultural events sector.”
The event runs from July 10, 2024 to July 20, 2024, with 250 choirs taking part.
“There will be competitions, workshops, ceremonies, and concerts. There are also more than 60 free daytime ‘Friendship Concerts’ being held across the region, so there will be something for everyone.”
A Musical Journey with a Purpose
One of the participants who deserve a special mention are ‘The Common People’ who are already winning hearts before arriving in New Zealand.
Founded in 2015, The Common People, a dynamic and diverse music group based in Melbourne, has been making waves not only for their melodious performances but also for their philanthropic efforts.
The group, composed of members from all walks of life united by their love for music, has graced prestigious venues such as the Sydney Opera House and St. Paul’s Cathedral Melbourne. However, their impact extends far beyond their musical talents.
Transforming Lives in India
In 2020, The Common People initiated a child sponsorship programme aimed at transforming the lives of underprivileged children in India.
Through their annual charity concerts, they have raised funds to support 200 children in the districts of Thiruvallur and Kanchipuram, located 90 minutes from Chennai International Airport.
This programme provides not only education but also basic health initiatives and monthly groceries for the families, reflecting the group’s commitment to holistic care.
The group’s flagship programme, “Stand by a Child,” focuses on improving the quality of life for children who have faced significant adversities such as abuse, neglect, and family trauma.
By offering regular counselling, mental health support, and working closely with schools, The Common People aim to nurture these children, restore their health, and provide them with formal education to uplift their livelihoods. The programme also addresses malnutrition by ensuring that families receive regular supplies of food and necessities.
Empowering Women with “Stand By Her”
In August 2021, The Common People launched another significant initiative, “Stand By Her,” dedicated to improving feminine hygiene for girls and women in rural villages. This campaign provides sanitary products and hygiene education, aiming to eliminate the stigma associated with menstruation and empower women to pursue education and lead healthier lives. The initiative has made a notable impact by boosting confidence and reducing embarrassment, which often leads to girls skipping school during their menstrual cycles.
Mathews Abraham Puliyelil, the choir director and conductor of The Common People, shared his thoughts on their charitable initiatives: “It is a life-changing experience when we visit our kids in the rural villages of India every year. We spend time with them to understand their needs and dreams. It gives us a lot of purpose to our singing, and it inspires us to keep working towards the upliftment of the underprivileged.”
Representing Australia in Auckland
Looking ahead, The Common People are set to represent Australia at the World Choir Games (WCG) 2024 in New Zealand. Mr Puliyelil expressed the group’s excitement and said, “Representing the nation is an honour, and we are humbled by the opportunity. We look forward to sharing our unique story with the world and hopefully inspiring some along the way, as well as learning from others. Visiting Auckland, the UNESCO City of Music, and experiencing its rich heritage and culture with 11,000 fellow singers will be an amazing experience.”
The Common People’s journey from Melbourne to rural India and now to the global stage in New Zealand is a testament to their dedication to making a difference through music. Their story continues to inspire, proving that the power of music can indeed change lives.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
