Heavenly music inspires all
This year's Songs of Praise brought together the best of old and modern church music. It is evident that this event is well on its way to become one of the greatest ecumenical occasions in the Lowveld. Visit our website to view some pics
MBOMBELA – Those seeking an inspirational and uplifting afternoon of outstanding music were treated to exactly that on Sunday when the 15th annual Songs of Praise was held at the Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk Nelspruit.
The direction of well-known conductor Richard Cock, excellent choirs – local and from Johannesburg – and world-class musicians combined to present a celebration of hymns and choral songs. It brought together the best of old and modern church music. It is evident that Songs of Praise is well on its way to become one of the greatest ecumenical occasions in the Lowveld. From the earliest times music and song have been man’s way of expressing emotion. It also forms an integral part of the lives of Christians worldwide. They express life’s pain and joy through worship, thanksgiving, confession and prayer. As Cock remarked, “There is nothing quite as emotional as listening to choir music.”
He is a well-known conductor in South African music circles and he has done wonders for the stimulation of music activities. He conducts symphony, choral and many major concerts throughout the country. His repertoire covers both classic and popular performances, such as Bach to Broadway, Flights of Fantasy and Lloyd Webber and Friends.
Tobias Kruger was the accompanying organist. He is an acclaimed musician who has already accompanied several international vocalists on their recitals, to huge acclaim. His performance strengthened the choral feel of the music.
The University of Johannesburg Choir, under direction of Renette Bouwer, was a wonderful addition to the programme. It is professional and is quickly blooming into a musical hybrid that reflects the struggles of the country’s past and hope for its future. Its delicate rendition of “Mary, Did You Know?” by Pentatonix had the audience in tears.
Anneke Coetzer conducted the Lowveld Community Orchestra. This is a unique group where young and old play together for fun and the love of music.
Members played with accomplished cellist Gerrit Koorsen and the Atempo Brass Band to accompany the mass choir, consisting of three choirs. Atempo is a composite of a trumpet, French horn, trombone and tuba.
Hoërskool Nelspruit’s choir also participated with Elet Diedericks as choir leader.
Local Laudate choir has gone from strength to strength under the direction of Thea Möller. This is not the first time it has have participated in the Songs of Praise with Richard Cock and its appearance was again a huge success.
The people and musicians who were there on Sunday afternoon, will never again be together listening to and making music in exactly the same way. It was a unique experience enjoyed by a full church and will be remembered for a long time to come.
