NWU Serenaders mark 30 years with epic reunion concert
The NWU Serenaders marked 30 years of musical excellence with a memorable reunion concert at North-West University.
The NWU Serenaders marked a significant milestone with their 30th Celebration Concert and Reunion, held on 23 – 24 August 2024, at the North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus.
The festivities kicked off on Friday, 23 August, with a mass rehearsal from 18:00 to 22:00 in Totius Hall. This grand assembly brought together current members, alumni from 1994 to 2019, and past conductors, setting the stage for a memorable reunion. The mass choir performance highlighted the unity and enduring spirit of the Serenaders’ community.
On Saturday, 24 August, anticipation built as the day began with a dress rehearsal at 11:00 in Alumni Hall. Esteemed past conductors, including Michael Dingaan, Desmond Phuthi, Lebogang Mafethe, Patrick Motshabi, and Itumeleng Pooe, were in attendance, each having profoundly shaped the choir’s legacy.
The main event, the 30th Celebration Concert, started at 17:30 with a wine and snack session. Guests enjoyed an array of platters before the formal program began at 18:30. Christiaan Tumelo Lesale, a current member, hosted the evening, extending a warm welcome to attendees and acknowledging key figures from NWU’s management, including Dr. Rheeder, Director of Student Life; Mr. Jaco Van Der Walt, Director of NWU Arts; and Mr. Nkosinathi Tom from the Vice-Chancellor’s office.
One of the evening’s highlights was a heartfelt surprise orchestrated by the current NWU Serenaders Executive. Certificates of appreciation were presented to past conductors who had been instrumental in the choir’s history. “It was a privilege to honor those who laid the foundation for our success,” said Tumelo Lesale. The honorees included Michael Dingaan, Desmond Phuthi, Lebogang Mafethe, Patrick Motshabi, Itumeleng Pooe, Lebogang Morakile (in absentia), and Katlego Maphakela (in absentia).
The concert featured a special performance of a song conducted by Michael Dingaan, one of the choir’s founders. The remainder of the performances were led by current artistic directors Mr. Tshiamo Sekonyane and Mr. Thamsanqa Mbovane. Additionally, Mr. Kamo Tsotsetsi, known for his local and international performances, gave a standout solo performance. The evening also included performances by Mr. Mqobongo and Mr. Lukhanyo Monco, with piano accompaniment by Prof. Tinus Botha.
The Student Representative Council (SRC) President also attended, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere.
This milestone event not only celebrated three decades of musical excellence but also reinforced the strong bonds within the NWU Serenaders community. The weekend’s activities served as a powerful reminder of the choir’s enduring legacy and its continued commitment to nurturing its tradition of excellence.
