Diona Liepiņa on ‘Choir Wars’: A Blend of Competition and Camaraderie

Singer Diona Liepiņa is leading the Rēzekne Orange Choir in the TV3 show ‘Choir Wars,’ drawing parallels to her experience on ‘The X Factor’ in 2021, but on a significantly larger scale. The show, set to premiere on March 8, emphasizes the importance of team spirit and individual personality within the choral ensemble.

Prioritizing Heart Over Technical Skill

Liepiņa revealed her selection process for choir members focused on character rather than purely vocal ability. She “scanned” potential participants, prioritizing those who demonstrated genuine passion and a positive attitude. “Technical skills can be improved, and particularly often enthusiasm motivates to do even more,” she stated, adding that she has already witnessed shy members blossoming within the group.

A Repertoire Rooted in Latvian and Latgalian Music

The ‘Choir Wars’ repertoire will largely feature songs in Latvian and Latgalian, reflecting Liepiņa’s personal connection to the language and her desire to showcase both legendary and contemporary composers. She expressed excitement about rediscovering beautiful songs in latest arrangements, highlighting the unique power of choral performance.

Increased Responsibility and Collaborative Spirit

Liepiņa describes the responsibility of leading a choir in ‘Choir Wars’ as sixteen times greater than her experience on ‘The X Factor,’ due to the larger team involved – sixteen participants, a choreographer, a choirmaster, producers, and the TV3 team. However, she also praised the collaborative spirit of the choir members, noting their willingness to assist with tasks such as social media, organization, and costume design.

Highlighting Individual Brilliance Within the Ensemble

Liepiņa intends to showcase the individuality of each choir member, recognizing their potential for solo performances. Her approach prioritizes highlighting the choir as a whole although providing special roles for individual members, aligning with the show’s title, ‘Choir Wars.’

Preparing for the Live Broadcast

The Rēzekne Orange Choir is eagerly anticipating the first live broadcast on TV3 on March 8. Liepiņa is preparing the choir for a demanding two months, emphasizing teamwork and a collective spirit. She anticipates the initial broadcast will solidify their unity and allow them to deliver even more impactful performances.