The 17th China International Choral Festival (CICF) kicked off on Monday at the National Grand Theater in Beijing, organized by a consortium including China Arts and Entertainment Group Ltd., the International Federation for Choral Music, the National Public Cultural Development Center of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the China Chorus Association, the China Arts Education Promotion Association, the People's Government of Xicheng District and Fangshan District in Beijing, the Beijing Cultural Center, and Beijing University of Technology.

Established in 1992, the CICF boasts over 30 years of history and is endorsed by UNESCO's International Federation for Choral Music and the Chinese government. It stands as the largest and most prestigious international choral festival in China and the Asia-Pacific region, evolving into one of the world's most influential choral art events due to its exceptional artistic quality.

This year's festival has attracted elite choirs from 31 countries and regions spanning five continents, totaling 306 choirs and over 15,000 choral enthusiasts. From July 15 to 19, the five-day event features six key sections: performances, evaluations, exhibitions, education, discussions, and charitable initiatives, comprising a total of 13 programs and 212 captivating choral performances and activities.

Seven choir groups from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, with nearly 300 participants, are using their voices as a conduit to showcase their talents at the festival. At the opening ceremony, performances of renowned artistic works such as "Ascending the Stork Tower," "The Path of Light," and "Quiet Night Thoughts" by the Hong Kong Agape School Choir, the Macao Choi Kou School Choir, and the Taiwan Infinite A Cappella Group respectively, highlighted the rich cultural heritage of China, portraying a splendid picture of cultural unity and integration.

During the opening concert, the Macao Choi Kou School Choir performed two songs: the Cantonese piece "Kung Fu" and "The Path of Light," composed by Chan Wai-man, a member of the Macao Youth Federation and the President of the Association of Macao Choral Teachers .

Chan expressed his joy at the Choi Kou Choir's participation in the China International Choral Festival once again, partaking in this esteemed and high-level choral event. This marks their second appearance following their debut in 2016.