Ratanda Choristers aim high as competitions and challenges shape their 2026 journey
The Ratanda Choristers are preparing for a demanding year as they take their voices to major choral competitions across SA, and appeal for sponsorship to support travel, training and performance costs.
The Ratanda Choristers are gearing up for a demanding and promising 2026 as they prepare to compete on provincial and national stages while promoting unity through choral music.
Led by choir director Glen Mohlomi, the group brings together adults with a common interest in choral singing. Mohlomi said the choir’s primary objective is to measure its growth through competitions.
“Our vision is to share, enjoy, learn and perform common songs through our shared love for choral singing. Choral music naturally brings people together, and through this choir, we create a space where members can grow musically, support one another and express themselves as a collective.
“Several members are former choristers from the Ratanda Secondary School, contributing experience and a strong musical foundation to the ensemble,” he said.
Mohlomi said the choristers regularly rehearse, focusing on vocal development, discipline and teamwork.
“Competitions allow us to see how far we have come, learn from others and continue improving the quality of our performances.
“Our repertoire includes traditional SA music, and the choir regularly performs at community and cultural events in Ratanda and the surrounding areas.
“Our 2026 competition calendar includes the sixth SJ Khoza Choral Music Competition in Giyani in July, the Battle of the Municipalities in East London in September and Lacma in Bloemfontein in October, where the group will represent the local community,” he said
Mohlomi added that financial constraints remain one of their greatest challenges, particularly because many members are unemployed and performances often require travel to other provinces.
“Sponsorship is our biggest challenge because when we perform outside the province, we have to cover travel costs, accommodation and daily needs.
“We also need funds for rehearsal spaces, choir camps, food and uniforms for choristers, which are both essential for performance and morale.”
The choir is open to adults aged 20 and older with a passion for singing. There are no auditions or joining fees, and members are encouraged to develop individually through solo opportunities and leadership roles within the group.
Rehearsals: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 17:00 to 19:00, and Sundays from 15:00 to 17: 00 at the Lebone drop-in centre, behind the Ratanda Mall.
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