September 22, 2014
No. 195
The Sistine Chapel Choir from the Vatican is visiting the Republic of China (Taiwan) between September 22 and 25, 2014, and will give its first ever performance in Taiwan on the evening of September 23 at the National Concert Hall in Taipei City.
Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Vanessa Y. P. Shih hosted a welcome reception for the 70-member delegation at their hotel in Taipei City on September 22, highlighting the importance attached to their visit by the ROC government. The convivial reception was also attended by the Holy See Chargé d’Affaires Monsignor Paul Fitzpatrick Russell, the Archbishop of Taipei John Hung, the Archbishop of Kaohsiung Peter Liu, as well as clergymen serving in Taiwan.
In her remarks at the event, Vice Minister Shih cordially welcomed the Sistine Chapel Choir to Taiwan on behalf of the ROC government. She stated that the ROC and the Holy See have maintained diplomatic relations for 72 years, during which the two sides have engaged in frequent interactions. In the past two years, both President Ma Ying-jeou and Vice President Wu Den-yih have visited the Vatican, while several cardinals have come to Taiwan to take part in events. In addition to solid diplomatic relations, the ROC and the Holy See also enjoy a strong partnership in charity work and humanitarian aid. Furthermore, in December 2011, the two sides concluded an agreement on collaboration in higher education and on the recognition of studies, qualifications, diplomas and degrees, so as to enhance bilateral educational and cultural ties. This visit by the Sistine Chapel Choir will open a new chapter in musical exchanges between the two sides.
The choir, which has its origins in the scholas cantorum of the Roman Empire, was formed more than 1,400 years ago. For centuries, it has preserved the musical traditions of the Roman Catholic Church, performing at liturgical celebrations presided over by the Pope, as well as other important events. Indeed, as one of the oldest choirs in the world, it has gained the well-deserved reputation of being the guardian of sacred choral music. During its stay in Taiwan, the Sistine Chapel Choir will also visit major cultural sites including the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101. (E)