By Kobus Erasmus
Walking along Victoria Street in the past week one might have noticed the ridiculously long line of people queued outside the Stellenbosch University Konservatorium. What were these people excitedly buzzing about during their lunch breaks? Was there some renowned act from overseas in town that had them lined up down the block?
Nope; people just wanted to hear their local choir.
Stellenbosch residents are in for a treat as the Stellenbosch University Choir prepares to take to the stage in the Endler Hall for two concerts over consecutive weeks. The first of these concerts took place on Thursday 4 May and left the raucous audience – with much more hometown familiarity than their usual audiences – in absolute awe, and in standing ovation.
These performances are a part of the SU music department’s ongoing Lunch Hour Concerts, a host of performances that showcase the University’s top musical talent. The concerts offer free entry for music lovers and students alike.
Under the guidance of conductor André van der Merwe, the Stellenbosch University Choir is currently ranked as the number one choir in the world according to the INTERKULTUR world rankings. After experiencing the choir in action, their placement at the top feels completely justified and deserved. Reynhardt Buys, Stellenbosch University Choir Committee vice-chairperson, explained the level of commitment being a member of the choir requires.
“Firstly, it is extremely difficult to get in. André tells us he gets around 700 applicants every year, and this year we got 50 new members. We practise [twice a week] for two and a half hours, and once a month we have a rehearsal weekend.”
As the concerts are completely free to enter, Buys encouraged everyone to attend.
“It is such an awesome opportunity for people who never thought they would come watch a choir. They do not have to spend any money, and in the Endler is very special, the acoustics are amazing. I would highly recommend everyone to go.”
If the lunch hour concerts left you wanting to hear more, Buys added that there is more to look forward to, as the choir is set to perform twice more in May.
“We have Gala concerts on the 12th and 13th of May, also in the Endler, and they are going to be full concerts. The Lunch Hour Concerts will probably only be 60 to 70 percent of our full repertoire.”
It is truly special to be able to watch this world-class act perform in their hometown. Music lovers, be sure not to miss out! The second and final of the choir’s Lunch Hour performances will take place on Thursday 11 May at 1 PM in the Endler Hall.
