My Adventures in Peace Corps Peru: III Concurso de Canto en Ingles / III English Song Festival

As a Peace Corps Youth Development Volunteer I work with public high schools, here called national schools. In my site, I work with two – IE San Francisco in the main town of Mocupe and IE 11185 in my pueblo of Ucupe.

The English teacher at IE San Francisco worked with the past volunteer to organize an English singing competition with all of the students of her school. And so when I arrived I began working with the students and teacher to organize and prepare for the 3^rd annual competition. I spent a few weeks essentially working as a chorus teacher – something I never thought I would say and something I certainly don’t have the talent for! But it was really fun! Peru has an undying love for all things 90’s (scrunchies and track suits are still very fashionable here) and 90’s music is no exception! Song choices ranged from Sting & The Police to Eric Clapton, Black Eyed Peas to Backstreet Boys.

On September 27, three other Peace Corps Volunteers in nearby sites came to Mocupe to emcee and judge our competition. Students were judged based on Pronunciation, Organization, Originality & Impact. The winners were the senior class girls with Christina Aguilera’s “Come On Over” - I will be working on posting the Peru version of Christina Aguilera on YouTube soon!! The winners received 80 Nuevo Soles (the Peruvian currency). 80 students had donated 1 sole each to make the prize money. Other prizes included cakes, candy, and drinks donated by teachers.

Obviously singing a few songs in English is not going to change anyone’s life or move the community forward, but it was a great opportunity to get to know many of the students with a fun activity they were all excited about! Learning English is also helpful for students as they prepare to compete for a spot in university or an institute of higher education and the job market. So sing your hearts out Peruvian Backstreet Boys!