The soulful, pure and natural singing talent of the young 13-year-old Potchefstroom music lover, Lukhanyo Tlampe, is like a breath of fresh air on a hot summer’s day.
Cool, inviting and vibrant are the notes that flow from Lukhanyo’s soul when he sings the classic Louis Armstrong song, “What a Wonderful World”.
Quite an apt title when one looks at the world of singing that Lukhanyo enjoys each day when he spends hours crafting his gift.
Video: Wouter Pienaar
Now Lukhanyo’s world will be even more exciting as a newly-registered member of the world-famous Drakensberg Boys Choir School.
Lukhanyo, who is a Grade 7 learner at President Pretorius, was accepted after completing an audition for the famed choir in September this year. He is just one of a select few across South Africa (boys aged 9–14) to be chosen for this prestigious boarding school.
“I’m excited about making new friends who love music just like me. I am looking forward to the experience of being around music all the time. My dream is to compete in SA Idols when I am 16, to win the competition and give money to the homeless and less fortunate,” states the big-hearted singer.
Lukhanyo explains that he had to do several tasks before passing the auditions for the Drakensberg Boys Choir School.
“I had to sing my favourite song, sing scales, write tests and do an interview after passing the singing round. My teacher phoned to tell me I had been accepted. I was so excited after hearing the good news that I danced in the street and screamed in the house,” he adds.
Lukhanyo’s singing journey started in church at a young age.
With the guidance of his mom, Angie, he has blossomed into quite the performer with a mic in his hand and a song in his heart.
“I started leading songs in church at nine years old. My mom is very supportive of my music career, as she also sang when she was my age.”
“I sing every hour of the day – sometimes even with the remote, imagining that I am on stage with a mic. I feel that gospel is my favourite genre. My favourite gospel song is Akwanele,” says Lukhanyo.
According to Roné Jansen van Vuuren, a teacher at President Pretorius, Lukhanyo is a natural performer who has loads of dedication and perseverance.
“This is a huge opportunity for Lukhanyo and we believe doors will open for him at the Drakensberg Boys Choir School. It is a huge thing for a young boy from Potch to be accepted at such a prestige school,” she added.
Lukhanyo still needs funding for the required school and boarding fees at the Drakensberg Boys Choir School.
Anyone willing to assist Lukhanyo in achieving his dream can contact Roné Jansen van Vuuren on 082 323 1786.
