Swazi Observer

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DRAKENSBERG BOYS CHOIR SHINES

By DEO GRATIAS MAGAGULA | 2024-11-25

UNDER a starry sky, the Drakensberg Boys Choir launched its Noël Tour 2024 with an unforgettable performance at House on Fire on Thursday night.

The event was a sell-out, with tickets flying off the shelves within two days, leading to the venue filled with an enthusiastic and diverse crowd of all ages.

One of the event organisers Mxolisi Magagula, a former member of the choir, expressed his gratitude to the audience for their strong support and attendance.

Programme
Dressed in crisp shirts, white frills, and royal-blue waistcoats, the choir, affectionately known as the ‘Drakies,’ captivated the crowd with a rich and varied musical programme.

Vaughan van Zyl, the choir’s Artistic Director, highlighted the choir's diverse repertoire, which stretched from timeless classical pieces to the lively beats of African music.

The choir’s performance featured a selection of classical, contemporary, and traditional songs in multiple languages, reflecting both the rich cultural heritage and the immense talent of the young singers.

The evening’s set list included beautiful renditions of pieces such as Gloria in Excelsis Deo, ‘I Saw Three Ships,’ Jubilate Deo, and the ever-popular ‘Carol of the Bells’.

One of the most engaging moments was when the conductor invited the audience to join in on a song, fostering a sense of connection between the performers and the spectators.

A particularly emotional highlight of the evening was Duduz' umoya Wami, introduced by one of the choir members.

The piece, composed by Mzwandile Mabuza, was described as a prayer for comfort during times of loss, taking the audience through the stages of grief.

The choir members not only sang but also danced in a poignant tribute to the message of the song, leaving the audience deeply moved.

The event was a celebration not just of music, but of community and shared history. Van Zyl pointed out that some of the attendees had once been part of the choir themselves, creating a full-circle moment of nostalgia and pride.

One of the choir members also encouraged any young voices who love to sing to consider joining the choir, mentioning that even Grammy award-winning artist Ndumiso Manana, popularly known as Manana, was once a member.

As the night came to a close, the audience's cheers and applause resonated through the air, with the choir conductor sharing his words of gratitude to the organisers and attendees.

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