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Vienna, 5 February 2025 – The United Nations in Vienna welcomed the talented young voices of the Novel Voice Children’s Choir as they embarked on a memorable visit to the Vienna International Centre. Accompanied by their dedicated teacher and supportive parents, the children had the unique opportunity to meet with members of the United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG), engage in an inspiring exchange, and experience a day filled with learning, sightseeing, and joyful camaraderie.
Founded in 2021, the Novel Voice Children’s Choir is composed of more than 100 children aged 4-13. The choir excels in original and adapted modern and traditional classical choral music and other diverse forms. Committed to professional music education and promoting classical music, the choir aims to create a community and platform for exchanging classical and modern music.
Since its establishment, the choir has participated in various opera productions by the China Opera House, including “Carmen,” “Il Trittico,” “Tosca,” and “Wang Yangming.” In 2024, they held a special New Year Music Salon at the China Opera House and performed at the China National Center for the Performing Arts. The choir has also collaborated with many well-known Chinese conductors, further showcasing their dedication to musical excellence.
The visit commenced with a special meeting in the prestigious plenary room, where the young choir members were introduced to the United Nations mission and work. They were warmly welcomed by representatives of the UNWG, who shared insights into the organization’s charitable initiatives and its commitment to fostering cultural exchange and education for children worldwide.
Sharon, a parent representative, shared her heartfelt thoughts: “This is my third time back to Vienna. When I first visited this beautiful city 20 years ago, I had the opportunity to join a guided student tour at the UNOV. This really widened my perspective and influenced my career choice later on. Now, I deeply appreciate this opportunity to bring my kids and their choir peers to visit the UN compound and engage with all of you. I believe such an experience will also plant a dream in their hearts.”
Choir member Paris Yin added, “This is definitely going to be a memorable experience for everyone. I hope we may come back and interact with you and other UN organizations worldwide in different ways and roles.”
Choir Director Wang Yiwen expressed gratitude, stating, “We want to extend our sincere appreciation to all organizers for providing such a great platform for us. The work you are committed to is very important, as children worldwide are so precious. It is truly an honor for us to make our own contributions to help those in difficulties. As a children’s choir, we want to leverage children’s pure and beautiful voices to transmit love and hope.”
Following the enlightening discussion, the choir spontaneously performed two songs, “Auf Flugeln des Gesanges” and “What a Wonderful World,” a cappella, to show their appreciation to the UNWG. Then, the children, along with their parents and teacher, went on a sightseeing tour of the UN headquarters. Exploring the iconic premises of the Vienna International Centre, they gained a deeper appreciation of the global efforts undertaken within its halls.
The highlight of the visit was a series of photoshoots, capturing the excitement and joy of the young choir members against the backdrop of one of the world’s most significant international institutions. Their visit served as an educational experience and a celebration of the power of music and unity in bridging cultures.
The Novel Voice Children’s Choir’s visit to the United Nations in Vienna was a heartwarming and enriching experience, leaving the children inspired and motivated to continue using their voices to spread harmony and understanding. The UNWG expressed its gratitude for the visit and looks forward to further opportunities to support and engage with young talents dedicated to making a difference through their music.
Photos: Victor Yin
About the Author
Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas is a Board Member of the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), Chairperson of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora-Austria (ENFiD-Austria) and a current ENFiD Board Member. She is also the 1st Vice President of the United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG), Founding Member and former President of the Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), Adviser and former President of the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF), Liaison for the Philippines and Councillor in the European Police Association (EPA), and a member of the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN).
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