UNS – The Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Student Choir has once again achieved national recognition by securing first place with the highest score of 88,88 at the 18th National Student Church Choir Festival (Pesparawi Mahasiswa Nasional XVIII). The event took place at Universitas Nusa Cendana in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), from Monday (9/30/2024) to Sunday (10/6/2024). In recognition of their achievement, the UNS Choir was awarded the grand prize of IDR 150 million, presented directly by the Rector of Universitas Nusa Cendana, Prof. Dr. drh. Maxs U.E. Sanam, M.Sc.
One of UNS Student Choir’s tenors, Junior Alfa Andrison, told uns.ac.id on Monday (10/7/2024) that the team performed historical sacred music and gospel spirituals in the competition. Their repertoire included “Die Himmel erzählen die Ehre Gottes” by Heinrich Schutz, a Baroque-era composition rich in themes of divine grandeur, and “Wade in de Water” by Allen Koepke, an Afro-American spiritual with profound energy and emotion.
“National Student Pesparawi XVIII is a prestigious event in the field of cultural arts, particularly vocal arts, aimed at university students across Indonesia. The competition brings together top talents from all over the country, offering a platform for students to showcase their abilities and enrich Indonesia’s cultural heritage,” Alfa explained.
Throughout the competition, the UNS Student Choir participated in various activities, including intensive rehearsals, workshops, and cultural exchanges that united teams from diverse regions. The event culminated with the UNS Student Choir’s participation in a worship service at GMIT Marturia Oesapa Selatan on Sunday (10/6/2024), as a gesture of dedication and service to church music.
The UNS Student Choir was represented by 37 singers, a conductor, and a coach. Junior Alfa Andrison expressed hope that this achievement will inspire other choirs in Indonesia to keep advancing and creating.
“This accomplishment reflects the hard work and dedication of all UNS Student Choir members, as well as the support from our coaches, mentors, officials, and the university. We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed throughout this journey, from preparation to competition. We also seek continued prayers and support so that UNS Student Choir may keep making our alma mater, Solo, and Indonesia proud,” Alfa stated.
Second place in the competition went to the Universitas Sam Ratulangi Choir with a score of 86,85, earning them IDR 100 million, while the Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY) Choir secured third place with a score of 85,88, receiving IDR 75 million.
HUMAS UNS
Reporter: Annisa Fakhira
Editor: Dwi Hastuti
