“It is wonderful when your performance has meant something to somebody. Music is enhanced emotion. I always hope that our music will create emotion and associations with experience.”
The music comes first and foremost for André van der Merwe, Stellenbosch University (SU) Choir conductor. The SU Choir holds the title of the World’s Best Amateur Choir, according to Interkultur’s Top 1000 choirs, however, regardless of how many awards they win the group is more focused on their love for music rather than winning every competition.
With an ensemble of approximately 110 members, the choir has won numerous local and international titles, and have participated in prestigious festivals and competitions. Earlier this month the choir won first prize in three categories at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales.
Hluma Magodla (24) studying Bcom Honours in Information Systems Management said, “Being able to represent not only our country, but our continent on international platforms has been the highlight of my time as a choir member.”
Hluma Magodla rehearsing in the Conservatorium. Photo: Kelly-Jane Turner
Kurt Marais (24), a Masters student in Operations Research said, “One of the most exciting performances thus far has definitely been the SU100 concert to celebrate the centenary of the university this year. We had the honour of performing with iconic artists like Laurika Rauch, Arno Carstens, Brandon October and Coenie de Villiers.”
Marais said that one of the most rewarding aspects of being in the choir is seeing people’s reactions to the songs they sing. “Music is a universal language, so seeing people react and comprehend the message is the most beautiful sight to witness. It is also great to perform songs that the audience have listened to, such as Francois van Coke with ‘Toe Vind Ek Jou’.”
The SU choir comprises of students from various academic courses, and only a few members study music. Margariet Swart (20), studying BMusic said, “What a lot of people don’t know is that we are such a diverse group of people who study different degrees and come from different places.” From medical students, to Bcom students; undergraduate degrees to masters; the choir is a place for people to get together to share their love for music.
Choir members are aware that they have to be committed as they practice twice a week for two and a half hours and have many performances lined up for the year. However, Shaen Maré (24), studying BAcc Honours said, “It’s all about time management – we know that those hours are booked so you work around them to ensure that your academic life doesn’t suffer from your participation.”
Van der Merwe is a conductor and composer from Durbanville who became the seventh conductor of the SU choir in 2003. Eleanor Lea (18) studying BSc in Human Biology is a first soprano in the choir and she said, “I really enjoy André’s passion for what he does with us. He treats us with respect and we also respect him, so our working relationship is very good. He goes out of his way to find out how you’re doing or to make you laugh.”
Feature image photo credits: Melissa Simons Photography.