Taiwanese Children's Choirs to Showcase Island's Cultural Diversity in Vilnius

Two children's choirs from Taiwan are set to perform in Vilnius, Lithuania, on July 11, offering a glimpse into the island's diverse cultural heritage. The concert, held at the Vilnius Town Hall, is free to the public.

The "Puzangalan" choir, composed of children from the indigenous Paiwan tribe in southern Taiwan, will present traditional Paiwan music adapted for contemporary singing. Founded in 2008, the choir's name means "hope" in the Paiwan language. Its leader, Wu Sheng-ying, specializes in adapting indigenous music. The choir aims to help tribal children, who often speak only Mandarin Chinese today, connect with their cultural heritage.

Joining them is the "Yo Wu Wei" choir from Tainan city, established in 2004. This group features children from various ethnic backgrounds, including Hokkien, Hakka, Han Chinese, indigenous peoples, and others. They perform in multiple languages, including Taiwanese, Hakka, Chinese, indigenous dialects, and foreign languages. "Yo Wu Wei" focuses on promoting musical and cultural heritage education in rural areas of Taiwan. Its name is linked to a local place name and symbolizes rich history, resilience, and unity.

Both choirs have received numerous local and international awards. "Puzangalan" is notably called "Taiwan's most beautiful voice." They will perform songs in indigenous languages, Chinese, and other tongues. While "Puzangalan" often wears indigenous costumes, organizers noted the similarity in colors to the Lithuanian flag is coincidental.

The tour, which includes performances in Poland, Latvia, and Estonia, is supported by Taiwanese partners: Union Bank of Taiwan, Union Culture Foundation, Catcher Technology, and the City God Temple of Taiwan Prefecture. The Polish festival organizer "Melody" coordinated the tour, including Lithuania due to its strong choral traditions and past cultural ties with Poland.