
ONE of the founding members of Siyaphakama Adult Choir, TK Kolo, was lauded for his work in the choir spanning two decades during the 20th anniversary celebrations of the choir at The Gallery on Saturday.
Chris Hani Choral Fraternity leader Chris Mdlango said it was only by God’s grace that the choir survived that long while choirs that were formed by breakaway groups, had since ceased to exist.
“Only those who have conquered, can celebrate. Only those who have succeeded, can be celebrated. Thank you, Mr Kolo, for allowing God to use you,” he said to applause.
Mdlango said Siyaphakama had been choral music trend setters in the district.
“The road has been long but Siyaphakama’s faith stood steadfast. Choirs emerged from various corners of Komani due to an inspiration by this movement. Politics emanated in the choral music fraternity as the movement grew but it is still here today.”
Mdlango said the choir had set an example of disciplined musicians with high morals.
Dr Zoliswa Twani of Guild of Choral and Indigenous Music Practitioners EC congratulated the choir. She said the choir had made a big contribution in promoting choral music.
“What God has planned and the doors he has opened, no one can shut. This is the time of special miracles and I have to ask you to keep on keeping on.”
Speaking on behalf of the sole sponsor – Mfuraa Projects & General, Andrea Gainsford said the company was blessed to be part of the celebrations.
“At Mfuraa we believe in giving back to our communities. We started with small community projects and we are growing. When you are able bless someone else and put a smile on their face, that is the greatest feeling. We wish the choir the best and that God holds you in the palm of his hand.”
Kolo said he had mixed feelings about the celebrations, adding a few choirs in the country reached the 20 year milestone.
He said the choir was formulated after churches revolted against members joining the then John Wesley Methodist Church choir. “Parents and churches wanted to know why people were promoting a church of which they were not members. The name was then changed to Wesley singers but the connotations were still there.”
Young people from Ezibeleni met and invited a number of choral music fans. It was there, after a choral music lull, that Siyaphakama loosely translated as “we are rising” was born.