They got the spot as the opening performer in the 'Children Are The Future' concert; additionally, they were to perform throughout the afternoon together with other children, singing the songs composed by Sadao, about ‘uniting hearts’ and creating peace for a better future for the children of the world.
The concert went very well. Together with Elfa Music School’s choir, SMAN 3 Depok rolled out a spectacular opening performance, singing Sampoerna Foundation’s theme song ‘Spread Our Wings’ and leaving the floor completely enthralled with the distinct, sweet and powerful voices resonating from the gigantic amplifiers of JCC’s Plenary Hall. It made a deep impact on the audience.
The students worked hard to prepare for the concert. For 3 weeks the 25 members of the choir underwent intensive training given by Elfa Music School, and crammed 6 songs, which are mostly in Japanese.
“Prior to the concert, we listened to the recorded songs, memorized the lyrics and practiced after school-hours everyday,” Said Dita Miranda, the spokesperson for SMAN 3 Depok’s choir. They even commuted all the way from Depok to Jakarta several times to practice with other performers and ended up coming home late. “A lot of us fell ill due to the intensity; and 2 of our members withdrew from the concert as they are not physically well,” she added.
Nevertheless, the concert provided SMAN 3 Depok choir with a great experience. The students learnt new vocal and breathing techniques, and they certainly benefited from the group practice sessions with international students and children from various parts of Indonesia.
“It’s our first time to join a grand event like this. We met lots of people, and we got to practice with Sadao and people from other countries. It’s an unforgettable experience,” a student said.
When told about sharing a stage with Sadao Watanabe, a renowned Japanese composer, and hundreds other youngsters of different nationalities from various international schools & music schools, SMAN 3 Depok’s choir could never have been happier.