But it was later that night that the Mount Ousley, Wollongong West, Nareena Hills and Figtree public school students got the chance to perform and open the 64^th Wollongong Choral Festival.

Musical director Lynda Murphy said the festival was a highlight for teachers and students alike.

“The event has run for so long because the teachers who have a love of music get great support from students and their schools,” she said.

“A lot of hard work has gone in from all parties, especially students who have been preparing for the festival since early this year.

“The highlight of the festival is always the excitement on the students’ faces as they wait eagerly to perform on stage and the huge smiles on their faces when they see their parents in the audience – it’s priceless!”

About 1300 students are taking part in the festival, which continues on Thursday, August 2, Monday, August 6, Tuesday, August 7 and Wednesday, August 8.

Choral festival president Bede Darcey said year 3 to 6 students from 24 primary schools from Helensburgh to Warilla featured in 2018.

Read more: IPRI Open Day on August 16 at UOW Innovation Campus

“The students have been working hard in their school groups to develop their skills over the last four to five months and learning the repertoire for their festival performances,” Mr Darcey said.

“By taking part in the festival students learn about music, self-discipline and courtesy towards other performers and at the same time have a lot of fun.

“Singing in a choir is a team activity and students get a clot of satisfaction in working together to accomplish a common goal.

“It’s great to see the way they become more confident in themselves and their ability to sing.”