Oldrin Masowa

The North-West University (NWU)’s Voices of the River choir can connect mind and soul through their music.

Established 11 years ago, this chorale group from the Vanderbijlpark Campus has offered students the opportunity to express themselves through music and has provided many with the means to escape negative societal influences such as substance abuse.

The group has gone from strength to strength and has achieved multiple successes under the leadership of former choir conductor Jafta Motsokwane.

Having performed at various campus and community events, Voices of the River’s repertoire includes various genres, such as gospel, jazz, choral and traditional music.

According to Kamohelo Zwane, NWU student and secretary-general of the choir, they strive for dedication, discipline and full-time participation.

Kamohelo encourages other students to join the choir. “The camaraderie is wonderful and is the glue that keeps us together. Even though time management can be a challenge, we all work together to create a balance between practise, performance and of course our studies.”

The Voices of the River choir will be hosting various events from 28 July until the end of September 2022. Among these will be an awareness night to raise awareness on social issues such as gender-based violence, the LGBTQ community and substance abuse.

They will also be performing at the residence competition and the 2nd Annual Mzansi Cultural Festival, which will feature students, staff and other well-known public figures.

The Voices of the River choir from the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus.

Kamohelo Zwane is the secretary-general of the choir.