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SINGING WITH "ONE VOICE"
Wearing the colour yellow, reminiscent of the people power movement in the Philippines - the students of the "One Voice" school of singing sang songs of inspiration and love during Darling Harbour’s Budda’s birthday festival.
Giant red lanterns, brightly coloured flags, flowers and Budda statues delighted the every corner of Darling harbour. Budda’s birthday festival was celebrated by gentle and serene flavour, keeping in mind the very nature of Buddhism.
The students who performed consisted of children aged between 6-18years of age. They were thrilled to perform during this Multicultural event and were asked to represent the Filipino culture.
They showcased songs that consisted of English and traditional Filipino songs such as Bahay Kubo.
"It was a long way to travel but it was worth it, just to see the children’s excitement and pride as they took to the stage. They worked so hard learning the songs, some even asked grandparents to help them with their diction and translation" said Mrs Tina Bangel, the head of the Kellyville Ridge based school.
"I was impressed. They sang the Filipino song with a Filipino accent, they sounded so sweet." Mrs Carlos said, mother of 12-year-old student Melissa. The children are all Australian born most being of Filipino heritage.
Not only did the children learn to sing in another language but they also learnt about the Filipino culture.
"We sang a song about the most famous Filipino dance called the "Tinikling" (bamboo dance). While learning the song our teacher showed us footage of the complicated dance and told us that it mimicked the Tikling birds in the reeds." Said 8-year-old Isabella Guarin of Glenwood.
Parents said that this performance brought families and friends together "It was beautiful to see the Grandparents and extended families come to watch the children sing as well celebrate Mother’s day." said Mrs Habito, who had family travel from Queensland just to watch their 7 year old niece Kiahna sing.
Tina believed that this was a great opportunity for the children to practise what they learn in their private and group lessons. "It’s a challenge to sing outdoors, you are competing with noisy crowds, traffic and unfamiliar surroundings, so the children were taught to focus on vocal projection, breath control and the correct vocal placement. Also, the main focus was to sing and dance as if no one was watching... basically have fun."
The day ended with a spine tingling performance of "Seasons of love" from the Musical Rent. Showing that even the littlest of performers can spread love just by sharing their gift of voice.
For more information about Private or Group lessons at the One Voice school of singing as well as Kindermusik programs for under 5 year olds please call Tina Bangel on 0414 626 004 or 9836 3389 or visit www.kindermusikwithtinabangel.com.au
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