By Oldrin Masowa

The Voices of the River choir from the North-West University (NWU) is set to perform in Mississippi in the United States of America (USA) during the December holidays. This expedition is not only meant for performance but also to learn about and explore the US culture, traditions and values. The choir plans to establish and maintain a long-term relationship with the US music embassy to gain more knowledge and experience in chorale rehearsal and music approach. It will perform in Lesotho again over the Easter weekend for a musical themed event.

This chorale group from the Vanderbijlpark Campus has gone from strength to strength, and has been crowned the winner of the 2022 Lengau Choral Music Association competition in the standard category, under the baton of Calvin Mofokeng for the first time. The group has also performed in various events, including the Old National Choirs Festival Eisteddfod and Gauteng Choral Music Association (GACMA) Eisteddfod.

Calvin Mofokeng, the music director and conductor of the Voices of the River choir at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, believes that their group is unique, and is eager to achieve more.

“We use our music to heal and feed souls but also to inspire and instil hope, and to better the lives of our people. Since we started interacting with our neighbouring communities, we have influenced many learners who are currently doing Grade 10, 11 and 12 to further their studies at any of the NWU campuses,” says Calvin.

This chorale group has helped to spread love and interest among students for participating in musical activities, and it has influenced many towards positive social behaviour such as discipline, tolerance and friendly community setting.

Voices of the River’s repertoire includes various genres such as pop, gospel and cultural music.

Calvin says he believes that his role as conductor of the choir came as a blessing to him.

“I believe that I was born to lead the dream and passion that everyone shares. It is even more evident when I am in front of the whole choir, the energy they show on their faces – it tells you everything.”

He wishes to leave a legacy that will be remembered forever. “I want people think of the name ‘NWU Voices of the River’ as a flowing river, and for the choir to reach great hights.”

Calvin has also pointed out that young people should use their talents to be courageous and bold and to set their goals and achieve them.

Voices of the River will be celebrating its 12th year of existence and an event will be held around September 2022.

The Voices of the River choir

Calvin Mofokeng