20 May 2009

The Fijian Lelean Memorial High School Choir Visit to IPC

By Shirley Ghozalli. Edited by Neil Hawes.

The Lelean Memorial High School Choir

On Wednesday, 13th May, IPC was honoured to receive a visit and performance from the Fijian Choir of Lelean Memorial High School. The choir, with its 67 students, were accompanied by the School Principal Mr Asaeli Rarokoliwa and 13 school staff members.

The Lelean Memorial High School Choir is very popular in Fiji. They participate in many church concerts in and have won awards in several national competitions. Included in the choir's achievements are: 1st place in the Annual Secondary School Choir Competition and 1st place in the Annual Fiji Methodist Church Conference, High School Category.

The visit to IPC was part of the choir's two-week tour of New Zealand, with special focus on the North Island. It was the choir's first overseas trip as part of an educational exposure programme for this young and enthusiastic group.

Arriving at IPC in the afternoon, the group was taken on a guided tour of the campus, with a light lunch provided afterwards. A presentation of the programmes that are provided at IPC followed in the Senior Common Room. Toward the end of their visit, the choir formed for a performance in front of the IPC students and staff members. Prior to the performance beginning, IPC President Wayne Edwards expressed his gratitude for the opportunity of receiving such a popular choir at IPC. In return, Mr Asaeli Rarokoliwa, the Lelean Memorial High School Principal, expressed his gratitude and acknowledgement to IPC for the wonderful hosting of their group. As a token, President Wayne Edwards and Principal Asaeli Rarokoliwa exchanged gift from each country.

The choir's performance included 2 well-known songs, 'Unchained Melody' and 'Oh, Rock My Soul', with a traditional Fijian song to close. They sang as one and their voices were strong, clear and melodious. It is small wonder that they been successful in competition!

The group departed after the beautiful performance with a message that they were impressed with IPC and very much enjoyed visiting the campus. Next year, they plan to tour Australia and, possibly, in New Zealand again.

Lelean Memorial High School Principal Mr Asaeli Rarokoliwa presenting a gift to IPC President Wayne Edwards

A stunning performance in the IPC Senior Common Room

<Back  |  ^Top