Auckland Choirs Shine at The Big Sing Finale in Dunedin

The annual Big Sing secondary schools’ competition concluded on March 15, 2024, in Dunedin, showcasing the exceptional talents of choirs from across New Zealand. Among the standout performers, choirs from Auckland dominated the event, taking home several prestigious awards.

A total of 24 high school choirs from eight cities participated in this year’s competition. The Auckland choirs achieved remarkable success, with five securing gold awards. The winners included: Cantare from Westlake Girls’ High School, Fortissimo from Dilworth School, St Cecilia Singers from Auckland Diocesan School for Girls, Voicemale from Westlake Boys’ High School, and Choralation from Westlake Boys and Girls Schools.

In a notable highlight, Voicemale also received the audience impact award for their lively performance of “An Old-fashioned Song,” a banjo-fueled number from the musical *Showing Off*. This recognition underscores the engaging nature of their presentation, which resonated with the audience.

Additionally, the award for the best performance of a te reo Māori song was granted to the all-female choir Leonessa from Takapuna Grammar. Their performance showcased the rich cultural heritage of New Zealand, contributing to the diversity of this year’s event.

The Big Sing has been a significant cultural event for over 30 years, representing New Zealand’s largest choral gathering. This year’s finale took place at the historic Town Hall in Dunedin, providing a fitting backdrop for the celebration of musical talent.

Choral music continues to thrive in New Zealand, with events like The Big Sing fostering a passion for singing among young people. The success of Auckland choirs at this year’s event not only highlights their dedication and talent but also reflects the vibrant choral scene across the nation. As the competition wraps up, participants and audiences alike look forward to what next year will bring.