CHORAL COMPETITIONS CONTINUE TO DEVELOP KZN

The Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism sponsored Imvunge Choral Competition lightened up for the second year in Durban. The choristers smoothed their act as usual though in a different setting; Mangosuthu University of Technology.

Speaking on behalf of the MEC, the Acting General Manager of Cultural Services Bongumenzi Mpungose said the department invested in this competition for the second consecutive year because it appreciates the role of choral music in societies.

 “Choral music played a significant role in African culture. Going back in history you will find that Africans used it to preserve and pass their history from generation to generation”.  The department continues this tradition through promoting this genre of music as part of developing all art forms in the province.

Imvunge meaning sweet sounds is an association that is committed to the choral music development in the province. “We want to ensure that the development of  choral music is sustained. This can be achieved through engaging as many stakeholders as possible” says President of the Imvunge Choral Music Association, Chris Mhlongo.

The most visible impression of this goal is seen from the choirs that contest in the B and C categories. Although this is an adult category competition, most entrants in prove to be tertiary institution entries.

Mhlongo is quick to add that it is through this association that the province has had over 4 choirs being champions in the National Choral Competitions. In spite of the Imvunge being reputed as a “grooming academy” for choirs, this year’s competition attracted B and C categories with A category choirs not entering the competition in spite of invitation.

Mpungose revealed the sentiments of the MEC Weziwe Thusi to having such associations giving birth to the provincial massed choir.