Large turnout for anthem auditions | Rotorua News | Local News in Rotorua

The pews were full, the song books open, but the words being sung were not from The Lord is My Shepherd or any other familiar hymn.

Instead, singers at St Luke's church were giving a full-throated rendition of the Russian national anthem.

They were among vocalists nationwide last month enthusiastically belting out the national anthems of the 20 countries contesting the Rugby World Cup as they auditioned for the official event choir.

In Rotorua, more than 50 people sang the Namibian, Fijian and Irish national anthems, conducted by University of Auckland lecturer and former musical director of Auckland Choral, Peter Watts.

New Zealand Choral Federation co-ordinator Ann-Elise Miles was delighted with the large turn-out for the auditions.

"It's all about group singing with passion and confidence," Mrs Miles said.

The New Zealand Choral Society wants to form a choir of about 30 people, but Mrs Miles said those who didn't get a place could still sing along in the stands as everyone who registered would receive an anthem song book.

A team decision regarding who has gained a place in the choir will be made by Friday. After that there will be just one rehearsal the day before each game.

Singers are expected to practise the anthems at home so they are ready on the day.

Mrs Miles said the aim of the exercise was to get people involved in a creative way and to provide an opportunity to support visiting teams.

"Art is for everybody," she said.