From surprise to joy: TNMS react to World Choir Games triumph

KOHIMA — The Nagaland Madrigal Singers (TNMS) achieved a remarkable feat by winning two gold medals at the 13th World Choir Games (WCG) in Auckland, New Zealand.

The choir, led by conductor Hito Kiho, won gold in the C7-Mixed Chamber Choirs and the C19-Contemporary Music Mixed Voices categories. Their performances included a wide range of repertoire, from Latin sacred works to Asian and Naga folk songs.

The soprano comprised Visenuo Rio, Lovikali Yepthomi, Vilivi Muru, Tesinle Lorin, Vituonuo Solo, Vivi Zhimo, and Tumchobeni Mozhui.

The alto section included Omekali Chishi, Nourhevinuo Kuotsu, Rumbeni Ophyopvui, Singsabeni Ngullie, and KP Jenyma.

The tenors were Ngavapmi Raikhan, Nungsangmanen Longkumer, Atsünglir Jamir, Puloka Chuzo, and Vilazotuo Tseikha. The bass section comprised Posezo Nyekha, Zhoto Vero, Ngovetso Lohe, Zanjilung Panmei, and Abeka H Achumi.

Eastern Mirror reached out to TNMS members to learn about their experiences.

Hito Kiho, the choir’s conductor, shared his experience selecting diverse pieces for the competition while adhering to INTERKULTUR’s guidelines and being inspired by various cultural and musical influences.

Kiho explained that they were provided with certain guidelines and requirements from INTERKULTUR for selecting pieces for the competition. Based on these, he had chosen pieces for the competition that included Latin, Filipino and Naga folk songs, as well as Carnatic choral works that were written, composed, and performed as premier pieces. He mentioned that he had decided to include a female composer, selecting Kalejs Kala Debesis, a Latvian folk song, for their repertoire.

Kiho reflected on the choir’s diverse repertoire, which included Latin sacred works, Asian and Naga folk songs, James Swu’s “Halleluya,” and other international folk songs. He expressed gratitude to God for their success, acknowledging that without divine support, their achievement would not have been possible.

He recognised the significant challenge of competing against over 250 choirs from 42 countries but was pleased with the team’s perseverance, which led to winning two gold medals and bringing honour to both Nagas and India. He highlighted that encouragement, evening gatherings, rehearsals, supportive words, and prayers played crucial roles in keeping the team focused and motivated.

Kiho mentioned that despite the tough competition, the team remained positive and eagerly anticipated their performance. He noted that participating in a friendship concert with choirs from China and Australia two days before the competition helped build their confidence. He explained that the formation of TNMS was driven by a long-held aspiration to elevate choral singing in Nagaland and India. Initiated in September 2023, the choir, despite being only eight months old, had achieved remarkable success due to the hard work and dedication of its members. Although securing funding posed a challenge, he was grateful for the support from various sources.

Kiho expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Advisor to the CM Abu Metha, Chairman of TaFMA Theja Meru, the state government, donors, families, friends, churches, and well-wishers.

Nungsangmanen Longkumer described their choir’s reaction to winning the gold medals at the WCG as beyond words. He mentioned that they were stunned when their name was announced, having only hoped for a silver meda. Longkumer conveyed that the sheer surprise and elation that washed over them were indescribable.

He recounted tears of joy, hugs of celebration, and a sense of accomplishment that filled the air as they realised their hard work had paid off in the most extraordinary way.

Rumbeni Ophyopvüi expressed that she felt very proud and emotional because it had not been easy to reach that point. She acknowledged the significant amount of hard work, effort, and sacrifice involved.

Vilivi Muru reflected on the moment as another significant milestone in her life as a musician. She attributed the achievement to the extensive hard work and effort put into the competition, and credited God for making it possible.

Puloka Chuzho conveyed his happiness at being part of the achievement and gave all the credit to God for helping them succeed. He also extended his sincere appreciation to Hito for his tireless efforts in leading the team to victory.

Vituonuo Solo expressed that all their ceaseless and tireless efforts and sacrifices were worthwhile not only because they won but also because they had the chance to share the gift of music with people from around the world. She described the experience as truly wonderful and unique.

Ngavapmi Raikhan noted that although his expectations had been modest, the experience was remarkable, and winning two gold medals surpassed his imagination. He highlighted the thrill of performing, the camaraderie with fellow choir members, and the sheer joy of being on stage as making every moment unforgettable.

Atsünglir Jamir conveyed that participating in the World Choir Games was an incredible experience. He found the opportunity to perform alongside talented choirs from across the globe both enriching and inspiring.

V Omekali Chishi remarked that the experience would forever be remembered and cherished by her. Chishi described the two gold medals as a humble tribute to His sovereignty and to the nation.

Novetso Lohe expressed gratitude to God and everyone who supported the team from start to finish. He felt fortunate to have performed in front of an international audience, to have experienced world-class venues, and to have learned about various cultural differences and similarities. Lohe also praised Auckland, New Zealand, as a wonderful place and described the experience as one of a lifetime.

Nourhevinuo Kuotsu conveyed that the announcement had filled her with pride and joy. She acknowledged the intense competition and the incredible talent on display. Kuotsu appreciated the chance to explore Auckland and to meet choirs from around the globe, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity.

Zhoto Vero described the experience of seeing their dream come to life as incredible, particularly enjoying singing with talented Nagas under the direction of Hito. He also expressed gratitude towards the Naga families, who had been supportive throughout the trip.

Tesinle Lorin reflected on the journey as an incredible one, highlighting God’s faithfulness to TNMS from the beginning. She described the moment the results were announced as thrilling and expressed immense happiness at bringing recognition to the country and state.

Vivi Zhimo expressed that she was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude following their choir’s achievement of winning two gold medals at the WCG. She noted that this accomplishment was a reflection of the countless hours of hard work, dedication, and passion invested by each choir member. Zhimo highlighted that every rehearsal, note, and performance had contributed to this moment of triumph.

Abeka H Achumi described the win of two gold medals as surreal, given the tough competition they faced. He recounted that when their team’s name was announced, he felt immense joy and pride. The moment made him reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout their journey.

Vilazotuo Tseikha expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to perform and compete on such a grand stage alongside the finest choirs from around the world. He attributed the success of winning two gold medals to God’s grace, despite the tough competition, and noted that the achievement was not only for himself but also for his nation and all those who supported them.

KP Jenyma mentioned that representing India at the prestigious WCG in New Zealand had been a dream come true. She described the experience of exploring new horizons and performing on the global stage as a privilege, and winning two gold medals as an overwhelmingly euphoric moment. Jenyma also shared that their hearts were filled with pride, gratitude, and an uncontainable sense of triumph, reflecting the power of teamwork, dedication, and passion.

Zanjilung Panmei expressed deep gratitude to God, highlighting how thrilled he was to stand on a stage with global attention. He described the experience as the fulfilment of an impossible dream and a testament to the value of hard work.

Posezo Nyekha acknowledged that, while the preparations were difficult, their efforts ultimately paid off. Nyekha extended heartfelt thanks to all supporters, recognising their invaluable financial and prayerful contributions.

Tumchobeni Mozhui described her experience at the World Chess Games as humbling. She felt a profound sense of appreciation for representing Nagaland and winning two gold medals. Mozhui also expressed gratitude to God, her family, friends, and well-wishers for their support, noting that the award holds a special place in her heart.

Lovikali Yepthomi mentioned that, aside from participating in a global competition with many talented individuals, she was and still is in a trance over their victory of two gold medals. She, too, attributed the success to the grace of God.

Visenuo Rio expressed immense gratitude and appreciation, saying that she was beyond words and emotions. She noted that their hard work and prayers had paid off, making their participation in the WCG worthwhile. She described competing with talented choirs from around the world as an incredible experience and opportunity, and winning the two gold medals as the cherry on top.

Singsabeni Ngullie expressed that at times the situation had seemed impossible and like just a dream, but she was grateful to God for opening up unimaginable ways for them. She also thanked those who had supported them financially, physically, and with their prayers. She described being a part of the WCG and winning two gold medals as overwhelming and enthralling.

Also read: The Nagaland Madrigal Singers wins two gold medals at 13th World Choir Games