Soweto Gospel Choir
- Presented by: Artist Series
- Venue: Macky Auditorium
- Macky Auditorium Concert Hall, 1595 Pleasant St, Boulder, CO 80309
“Meticulous and unstoppable… spirited and spectacular” -New York Times
Running Time:
1.5 to 2 hours
Preconcert Conversation:
Professor of Choral Music Education Susan Williamson, 6:45 in Macky Room 102
Event Overview:
The Soweto Gospel Choir mixes earthy rhythms with rich harmonies to uplift the soul and express the energy of South Africa. The 26 member group includes singers, drummers, and dancers from churches and communities in and around South Africa’s most famous township. In past tours, the choir has performed alongside Bono, the Eurythmics, and Peter Gabriel among others.
Program:
Traditional South African hymns and traditional Zulu, Xhosa and Sotho gospel songs
Free Outreach Events:
The Artist Series will present two events in collaboration with the Mount Calvary Lutheran Gospel Music Festival. Professor Sue Williamson will moderate a session entitled Gospel Performance Practices on Wednesday, February 22 at 4 p.m. in Room C199 in the Imig Music Building. Dr. Horace Boyer and Professor Kwasi Ampene will give a presentation comparing and contrasting American and African gospel traditions on Thursday, February 23 at 7 p.m. in Macky Auditorium's Room 102. Both of these events are free and open to the public.
Artist Bio:
Direct from South Africa, Soweto Gospel Choir is an awe-inspiring vocal ensemble, performing in 8 different languages, in an inspirational program of tribal, traditional and popular African gospel. Earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, a capella and charismatic performances combine to uplift the soul and express South Africa’s great hopes for the future.
Under the direction of the notable choirmaster David Mulovhedzi, the Soweto Gospel Choir, draws on the best talent from the many churches and communities in and around Soweto. Since the Choir began touring internationally in early 2003 they have performed to nightly standing ovations, sold-out houses and rave reviews.
As well as traditional African Gospel, the “Voices From Heaven” program also includes: “Amazing Grace,” “Paradise Road,” and music by Otis Redding and the soul-styled reggae of Jimmy Cliff. The concert also features traditional dancers and drummers and a dynamic four-piece band.
In October 2004 the Choir completed a highly successful five week tour of the United Kingdom. In August they returned to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where they performed their new show “Blessed” to packed houses and rave reviews. A highlight for the Choir was the opportunity to onstage with Anastasia, Queen, Peter Gabriel, Cat Stevens and Annie Lennox, to an audience of 26,000 at Nelson Mandela’s Aids Fundraising concert in Cape Town in December 2003, which was broadcast around the globe on MTV.
South African gospel music is indeed unique. It has strong roots in traditional music and conveys a powerful spiritual message. The Soweto Gospel Choir carries forward this rich heritage, celebrating the spirit of South Africa.
The Soweto Gospel Choir commenced its first tour to the United States in January 2005 to great acclaim. This follows a two month tour of Germany and Spain. Future appearances in Europe, North and South America and Asia are planned during 2005 and 2006.
Plan your visit
Most CU Presents performances take place on the beautiful University of Colorado Boulder campus. Take some time to explore our venues, find out how to get here and get more tips on what to do while you’re in town.
Plan Your Visit - Plan your visitAccessibility
The University of Colorado is committed to providing equal access to individuals with disabilities. If you are planning to attend an event take some time to review our accessibility services.
Accessibility - Accessibility