Gov’t needs to let foreign talent inspire Macau

Choral music can only reach higher standards in Macau depending on political will, said Aurelio Porfiri, director of choral activities at Santa Rosa de Lima School.
“Choral music is also about religion and philosophy. If [the government] closes the door to foreigners who can teach choral music, it becomes difficult or even impossible, as choral music is part of the Western tradition,” the Italian composer said.
Aurelio Porfiri, who also oversees musical activities at Our Lady of Fatima Girls’ School, affirms that for the quality of choral music to improve here “we need suitable teachers.”
“Macau hasn’t got a strong tradition in choral music, but I see that students who have been well trained can be quite good at it,” he stressed.
The musician recalled Italy’s football scene as an example: “When the Italian football league opened up to foreign players, we later won the World Cup. We must understand that in some areas we need help from those who know better than us.”
Furthermore, he highlighted the strong European presence in Macau, which dates back over 400 years. “It really must be the place where this presence should be encouraged to flourish, as both sides will benefit.”
Music education, he said, is crucial to the development of one’s character, no matter what career students will later choose to pursue.
“60 to 70 percent of my students will go on to study business or tourism, areas that are related to Macau. But music is still important because it helps you to know how to express yourself (…) As a side benefit, music teaches you to be better at whatever you do.”