The SU Choir will defend their title at the World Choir Games, in July 2021. PHOTO CREDIT: Facebook/Stellenbosch University Choir
The Stellenbosch University (SU) Choir will no longer compete in the World Choir Games in Belgium this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Corné Kruger, the SU Choir coordinator.
The World Choir Games has been postponed to July 2021.
This comes after the SU Choir were placed first in the Interkultur World Rankings – for the 8th time consecutively – in early March. The SU Choir have also won in the category for best performance in vocals for classical music, at the recent Toyota US Woordfees.
The SU Choir is considered to be one of the world’s best choirs, and is internationally renowned.
While disappointed that they will not be traveling due to the Covid-19 virus, the choir’s ranking is a validation of the choir’s hard work, said Ngamela Matiwane, choir member and chairperson of the SU Choir committee.
According to Matiwane, the success of the choir is owing to their level of hardwork and commitment. “Without it, we would not be as successful,” he said.
The SU Choir placed first in the Interkultur World Rankings for the 8th time consecutively, in early March. PHOTO CREDIT: Facebook/Stellenbosch University Choir
Unable to meet for rehearsals due to the virus and lockdown, the choir had to resort to alternative ways of practising under these challenging conditions, said Caleb Felix, SU choir member.
“Just because we are not practising weekly on campus anymore, does not mean that we do not rehearse,” said Felix.
Choir members were given sheet music and sound files with the songs, which members have to practice while they are at home, he said.
The choir’s conductor, André van der Merwe, is in regular contact with choir members via WhatsApp, said Matiwane.
“He sends us instructions on how certain pieces have to be done or which details that have to be focused on,” Matiwane said.
According to Felix, the current circumstances only motivates the choir to keep working hard and to continue honing their craft.
“This is just a temporary setback, but the dream continues and we look forward to taking part [at the World Choir Games] next year,” said Felix.