Choirs’ melodies resonate through Sudwala Caves
This choral concert was organised to provide a platform for various schools and young singers to showcase their skills.
A gooseflesh-provoking two-day concert in these iconic caves will not easily be forgotten by the more than 700 guests who attended the Rise Choir Festival.
The Mpumalanga Youth Choir (MPYC) organised this concert held in the Sudwala Caves on May 31 to June 1 under the theme ‘Creating the perfect chorister’, attracting more than 700 attendees, students, parents, teachers and community members, all coming together to support the outstanding choirs and enjoy a day of musical celebration.
Curro Bankenveld’s Marimba Group opened the stage for the MPYC and the guests knew they were in for a memorable show. The MPYC’s marketing director, Nipho Mashiane, said the purpose of the Rise Choir Festival was to celebrate musical talent and foster community engagement through choral music.
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“By bringing together choirs from various schools and youth groups, the festival provided a platform for young singers to showcase their skills, build confidence and connect with their peers. As the MPYC, we strive to rekindle the desire in the youth to sing a variety of choral genres, to expand their experiences and inspire them to strive for excellence and to act as inspiration to their fellow singers and audiences alike. Additionally, it serves to promote the appreciation of choral music within the community and encourages cultural and artistic development,” he said.
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Mashiane added that the festival exceeded their expectations with the high quality of performances. “Feedback from attendees and participants highlighted the event’s success in fostering a sense of unity and joy through music. The unique setting of the Sudwala Caves added an enchanting atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience for both performers and the audience,” he said.
Nine schools from Mpumalanga and youth choirs participated, contributing to a rich and varied programme with something for everyone. Future events are already planned.
Laerskool Nelspruit, Laerskool Laeveld’s juniors and seniors, Laerskool Barberton and Curro Nelspruit represented the Lowveld region, sharing the stage with the MPYC, the Highveld Youth Choir, Patriot Secondary School, Hoërskool Piet Retief, Ligbron Academy of Technology and the Highveld Youth Choir.
