The Grammarphones qualify for the AUS-ACA National Finals. Photo courtesy of the Grammarphones.by Kyle Nguyen, staff writer
On Sept. 23, Fountain Valley High School (FVHS) hosted the Grammarphones, an Australian boys choir from Toowoomba, who performed a medley of songs after school in the bowl.
After contacting Kevin Tison, director of vocal music, last year, the Grammarphones were among many other vocal programs who were drawn in by the reputation of FVHS’s vocal music program. For both FVHS and the Grammarphones, this was a great opportunity to experience a new culture through music.
“Being in our geographic area, a lot of people like to come to the west coast. We’re a really solid program and I get lots of calls every year. For me, I love international travel and the element that it brings to our students, being able to create relationships across the ocean with other students,” said Tison.
After their casual, impromptu performance in the bowl, the Australian boys choir and the Troubadours were able to do an official exchange with one another, singing songs and getting the chance to connect with each other. Afterwards, all of the choir groups at FVHS were invited to a social at Huntington Beach to hang out with the Grammarphones.
“I feel that it’s a learning experience for everybody and that Americans can teach something that Australians don’t necessarily have and that Australians can do the same for Americans. This is just the beginning and I hope that we can visit Australia one day,” said Dylan Nguyen (’17).
As a whole, it was a new experience for both parties to witness a culture that share many differences as well as similarities, all through this medium of vocal music.
“The American culture and the people are more upfront and energetic whereas Australians are a little bit more laid back, but overall, Americans are extremely nice people. I think our boys are enjoying this opportunity and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds,” said Mason Watts, a member of the Grammarphones.
