Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
BULAWAYO is buzzing with anticipation as ticket sales surge for the much-awaited Sound of Joy Chorale showcase set for May 16, with organisers saying the venue is almost filled to capacity.
The concert is taking place under the theme Songs of the Soil: Africa’s Sacred Story.
Sound of Joy representative Terrence Ndhleleni said the event would feature several guest community choirs, including Bulawayo Choristers, Sweet Melodies Chorale, Ubuntu Voices Ensemble and Catholic Gregorian Choral Choir.
“We have invited several guest community choirs from Bulawayo to grace the occasion. Each choir brings a unique musical touch that will make the concert memorable and spiritually uplifting,” said Ndhleleni.
He said audiences should also expect performances from saxophonist Tatenda Mabika, church choirs such as Ekukhanyeni Choir and solo vocalists who will complement the concert’s African sacred music theme.
Ndhleleni said ticket sales have been highly encouraging.
“Ticket sales have been very encouraging. The response from the public has been overwhelming. We encourage people to secure theirs early to avoid disappointment,” he said.
He said concertgoers should expect an inspiring musical experience showcasing celebrated Zimbabwean composers such as Paul Batjila and Thobeka Msipa.
“The crowd should expect an inspiring and high-quality musical experience filled with rich African choral music from some of our own Zimbabwean composers, powerful worship moments, cultural expression and an outstanding performance from the Sound of Joy Chorale female voices. I personally cannot wait for that one.”
He acknowledged logistical and financial challenges faced in organising the event without sponsorship.
Ndhleleni also hinted at another major production already in the planning stages.
“We are cooking something big as our next event is in the planning stages, with details to be announced soon after this concert,” he said.
Formed in 2019, Sound of Joy Chorale has grown into one of Bulawayo’s respected choral groups, earning recognition through collaborations such as the 2023 German Embassy Buddy Bear unveiling, winning the Econet iJoy Afta Joy Challenge last year and securing third place at the 2024 Tiro Mpane National Choral Eisteddfod.
