![Ernestine Stuurman from CT Opera performing with some of the choir members Ernestine Stuurman from CT Opera performing with some of the choir members](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/sites/www.westerncape.gov.za/files/ernestine_stuurman_from_ct_opera_performing_with_some_of_the_choir_members.jpg)
The comfort and joy music brings was celebrated at the Endler Hall in Stellenbosch on 24 April 2016. The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, in partnership with the Cape Winelands Municipality, Cape Town Opera and Western Cape Choral Music Association hosted the first leg of a choral music initiative by the DCAS.
Various choirs from Drakenstein, Breede Valley, Stellenbosch, Langeberg and Witzenburg municipalities took part in the event. The Witzenburg choir, consisting wholly of farmworkers from the area, received the first standing ovation of the afternoon. The choir from Drakenstein entertained the audience with Saai die Waatlemoen – a traditional medley.
DCAS Director for Arts and Culture, Jane Moleleki, said the choral music festival was a response to a community request for choral development in the Western Cape, in order to identify and develop talent within communities of the Western Cape. “Keep focused on developing talent and unlocking your potential,” she said.
The Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, said the choral music festival was held to, among other things, raise the profile and establish an annual festival of choral music in the Western Cape. “The festival will see choirs from all the Cape Winelands municipalities represented and together celebrating diverse choral music traditions from their communities” said Minister Marais.
The events celebrated the power of music, team work and how music has the ability to nourish the soul. Through events such as these, DCAS offers the opportunity to grow the next generation of music stars, BETTER TOGETHER.
Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877
E-mail: tania.colyn@westerncape.gov.za