The Suva Grammar jazz choir is bringing jazz back to the school. While the genre might not be the go-to choice for the younger generation, the choir members want to play a role in changing that.
Mentored by legendary Fijian singing sensation Eni Kumar, the choir has been preparing for three weeks for the Suva Grammar School Show.
“When I came to listen to these students, I did not have to teach them how to sing,” the eminent entertainer said.
“It was very easy for me to work with them.
“I am just trying to give them inspiration of the music side of things. Telling them how to use their voice and what they are going to face up with on the night.”
Supported by Alliance Française, the show will also feature renowned French jazz saxophonist Samy Thiébault and premier local live band, The Gang Fiji.
Alliance Française deputy director Anaïs Dassonneville said they were trying to make a mark in the history of jazz in Fiji and shed some light on the genre.
“Jazz is normally an undermined style of music in Fiji, we don’t hear about it so much and we want to give it full light,” she said.
For Seruwaia Meo, a member of the jazz choir, the preparations have been a great learning experience.
“For the first week, when we tried out, and when we heard it was tough because not everyone likes that type of songs,” she said.
“But for the second week, we got familiar, and we loved it.”
The Suva Grammar Show will be held on Wednesday November 1 at the Suva Grammar main hall. Tickets are selling fast at theAlliance Française office and will also be available at the gates on the day of the event.
