UK audience reduced to tears as local choir make history
A local choir wowed an international audience and reduced some people to tears during its recent tour of the United Kingdom, including South Wales and London.
Cenestra Male Choir lived up to its standard and its musical director, Themba Mahlopha, said the choristers had great moments.
He described as “awesome” the impact his choir had on the UK audience.
“The South African flag was flown very high amongst nations of the world — the boys were just real ambassadors in all respects,” said Madlopha.
He added that as musical director of this great choral outfit, he cannot help but believe that Wales (Land of Song) and London were served and bowled over.
The audience in the UK also had their reviews:
A message on London’s Cwmbach Male Choir web page guest book, written by J Miles reads: ”I was lucky enough to attend both the concerts in the Colisseum and St Andrew’s Church and each time I was simply enchanted by the wonderful performances.
”As hosts, Cwmbach lived up to the excellent standard that we are all used to, but the visitors (Cenestra) blew me away completely.
”It was evident why they are ranked as one of the top choirs in the world.
”Their performance was soul stirring and incredibly uplifting.
”Many performers receive a standing ovation at the end of their concerts but, until this week, I had never seen a standing ovation part way through a set.
”The choir overwhelmed the audience on both occasions, reducing some people to tears.
”The choristers were wonderful ambassadors for the world of music, but also their courtesy and goodwill toward their hosts and the people that they met before and after the concerts made them wonderful ambassadors for their country.
”Many people are looking forward to the time when we can welcome them back to Wales and I count myself as one of them.”
Jayne Thomas had this to say: ”You really do not want to miss hearing this South African Choir.
”They performed to a sell out theatre in Aberdare last night, and had several standing ovations.
”Every time they sang I was on the verge of tears — it was so beautiful and uplifting.
”Their repertoire is a mixture of pieces from the traditional male voice repertoire — including songs in Welsh and African traditional songs.
”There are just 26 of them, but the power is amazing.
”Individually their voices are those of soloists, together they sound as one.
”The phrasing and expression is wonderful and their dynamic range outstanding.
”They are funny and moving — they are true performers.
”The combined items with the fantastic Cwmbach Male Choir were out of this world.
”Two brilliant choirs singing together — just wow.”
