Figure 1.--The Drakensberg Boys' Choir School is unique in South Africa. The boys' distictive costume includes a lacey jabot |
Many European countries have a long tradition of church boys' choirs dating back to the medevil era. Southa Africa has inherited both the Dutch and English tradition. Since the end of Apartheid in 1992?
the African music tradition has been incorporated into the choir repoirties. I have to date, however, acquired little inofrmation on the South African choirs.
I do have information on one choir. The Drakensberg
Boys' Choir School is unique in South Africa. Founded in 1967, the choir has earned local and international fame. The choir school is situated in the heart of the Kwa-Zulu Natal Drakensberg mountain range near the town of Winterton. The Choir notes that nature and culture
are closely interwined in this idyllic surrounding--the majestic peaks of Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak in harmony with the sweet clear sounds of the young voices of the more than 106 boys enrolled at the school.
The Drakensberg Boys' Choir School's Mission is to prepare boys for life and leadership through excellence in music, academics and social enrichment in a Christian environment. Situated in the heart
of the Central Drakensberg of Natal, the
Drakensberg Boys' Choir School has been
awarded many accolades for its musical
achievements since its inception in 1967.
The school boasts a unique, fulfilling and
comprehensive educational experience
which extends beyond music to include
academics, sport, culture and worldwide
travel. The school caters for between 100
and 115 boys from Standard 2 to Standard 7 in a
compulsory boarding establishment, and
offers an excellent pupil/teacher ratio which enables staff to fulfil a caring and personal role in keeping with the school's mission statement. Academic classes are presented as current and challenging opportunities
to boys of sound academic background and ability. A skills-based approach is followed and is aimed at the development of personal discipline and leadership. Subjects taught include English, Afrikaans--Language across curriculum, Mathematics, Science, IT, Accounting,
Guidance, Divinity, Art, Music, Music Technology, Physical Education and Book Education. Extramural activities include the usual sports such as Rugby, Cricket, Swimming, Athletics, Cross-country and Tennis, and extend to 'Berg Hiking, Horse Riding, Golf and Trout Fishing. Music achievements are based on a rigorous and comprehensive foundation laid at the school.
Boys are auditioned at venues throughout South Africa and, if successful, are accepted into the school after further academic evaluation. A further 17 music tests have to be passed before pupils form one of the school's two equal choirs as fully-fledged choristers, with the
inherent rights to touring locally and internationally. Individual instruments and voice lessons are offered at the school, and many of the boys enter and excel in their annual Unisa and Royal School examinations. All boys study Unisa music theory and write the relevant examinations.
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