The World Choir Games coming to Cincinnati this summer are being compared to the Olympics. As many as 20,000 competitors are expected from up to 70 nations. About 200,000 spectators are anticipated to attend the event. The competition will be intense. There will be opening and closing ceremonies just like in the Olympics, but this time it’s all about music, not sports.
Two representatives from Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber’s C-Change Class 6, Abi Evans and David Bareswilt talked about the Choir Games at the Florence Rotary meeting on January 23rd. The speakers are working with the 2012 World Choir Games’ Speakers Bureau to help spread awareness about this most significant international event in Cincinnati history.
Evans and Bareswilt shared the podium and pointed out that Cincinnati is the first ever U.S. city to host the Games. We were chosen because of our Regional attractions, the number and variety of venues where competitions will take place, housing in close proximity to the venues, and our passion for the fine arts. The participants will want to take in the sights, the culture, and our musical heritage while here.
The Games, held every 2 years around the world, will run from July 4 through the 14th. There will be 23 categories of music including gospel, show choir, jazz and barbershop. Tickets for the competitive events will go on sale March 1. Billed as something for everyone, events will also be held across the region. Some will be free of charge, some non-competitive.
Economic benefit is expected to be huge with anticipated revenue to our area of $73.5 million. Just one example, 45,000 hotel nights are expected to be booked for the 11 day event. In addition to area hotels, this includes dorm rooms at local colleges and universities.
Check out the web site, www.2012worldchoirgames.com for complete information. There is a very informative 4-minute YouTube video accessible there. Thousands of volunteers are needed to assist the visitors. You can also register online to volunteer.
For information about weekly meetings, guest speakers and community service opportunities of the Florence Rotary Club, contact Pat Moynahan, president, atamoynahan@insightbb.com or (859) 802-0242. Visit the group’s web site at www.florencerotary.org . Florence Rotary meets weekly on Mondays at noon at the Airport Hilton Hotel in Florence.
