MODfestivals mourns the passing of Aida Swenson

MODfestivals mourns the death of Aida Swenson. The Indonesian choir director, lecturer and adjudicator passed away on 8 September 2022 in Singapore. She was a long-time companion of MODfestivals, a strong supporter of the worldwide choral scene and a dear friend of the two artistic directors Jürgen Budday and Dolf Rabus.

 Aida Swenson was a regular adjudicator at the World Choir Games and other international choral competitions for more than 20 years as a workshop leader and lecturer, and also as a conductor of outstanding participant choirs from Indonesia. She was a strong voice in the international choral world, playing an important role in the development and promotion of choral music in her home country and carrying her country's musical heritage around the world with great commitment.

 Aida Swenson was also the founder and conductor of the Indonesian children's and youth choir Cordana, which has achieved numerous awards. In 2010 she participated with Cordana at Musica Sacra International in Marktoberdorf and accompanied Musica Sacra International to Argentina in 2012. For the next Marktoberdorf International Chamber Choir Competition in 2022, Aida Swenson would have been on the jury. The MODfestivals association will miss Aida Swenson very much.

 We are grateful for the time she dedicated to us and to choral music. Her great legacy will live on in the international choral scene through her work. Our deepest condolences go to her family and close friends.

 MODfestivals in September 2022