DATE:2013-9-6

When it comes to uniting people from different cultural backgrounds, music is certainly one of the most valuable means to foster mutual understanding. Among numerous forms of art, choral music represents one option for expressing musical passion shared within the choir and the audience.
 
As I am proudly supporting the World Peace Choral Festival, which takes place in Vienna again, I am especially pleased that the World Peace Choir launches its first China tour this summer, when choristers from all over the world are travelling to various Chinese cities in order to share their passion for music with their fellow artists and the audience. Moreover, it is an excellent opportunity for the participating children to share experiences, explore new cultures and build up friendships.
 
Apart from being a great musical event, the tour furthermore pursues another objective; it aspires to convey a political message as well. Acting as a role model for peaceful cooperation between different nations, the World Peace Choir's professed goal is to spread this notion across the globe.
 
I am convinced that all the various performances will meet the most positive responses and I would like to express my best wishes to all participants and organizers, as it will definitely be a memorable musical event and a great contribution to the promotion of choral music all over the world.
 

The Federal President of the Republic of Austria
Dr. Heinz Fischer