What would the Woordfees be without an inspiring performance by the Stellenbosch University (SU) Choir? Therefore, the special performance by this extraordinary group is expected to be one of the highlights of Woordfees TV. Fans can look forward to a completely new repertoire of 12 works.
Even though the choir could not rehearse as often as before as a group, conductor André van der Merwe is full of enthusiasm: “This is an event! And even if we sang a few crooked notes, we were at least able to keep on working." He says the choir is excited to be part of this “frontier-shifting broadcast". “The choir members have continued to work tirelessly for the past 18 months. Their caring attitude of work ethic often carried me."
André makes special mention of two new compositions that sing about the power of nature. “'Calling in the Wind' by Rihards Zalupe (Latvia) and 'The Destroyer' by Sean Doherty (Ireland) are kaleidoscopic works. Elements such as wind and water are mimicked by the voice in creative ways."
On a lighter note, there is Hendrik Hofmeyr's “Spokewals". Two of André's own arrangements for the SU Choir will also be performed. These are “Southern Cross" by Joshua na die Reën and Loyiso Gijana's “Hemadoda Sabelani":, which can be translated as “people, listen". It is a powerful plea against gender-based violence (GBV).
André comments that COVID-19 protocols forced the choir to rehearse mostly in separate vocal groups. This allowed him to do a lot of detailed work with the groups. “It is nerve-racking to have them performing together for the production now, but we continued to grow. We did not give up."
As for the TV production, they promise to share the true SU Choir with the viewers. “We recorded in an open-air venue, which of course placed special demands on the choir members and technicians, but I feel that we will still be able to share our hearts and souls with the viewers. And that is what we will be focussing on."
- Universiteitskoor Stellenbosch | 3 Oct 16:00 | 7 Oct 17:30 | DStv channel 150.
A selection of performances by the SU Choir from 2017 to 2020 will also be broadcast on Woordfees TV. Consult www.woordfees.co.za for the final programme. - PHOTO BY STEFAN ELS: André van der Merwe conducts the SU Choir during their special recording on 18 September 2021 in the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre for Woordfees TV.
