Four choirs from Eswatini recently competed in the Tiro Mpane Foundation National Choral Eisteddfod Cluster Three regional eliminations held in Mbombela. They faced stiff competition from talented choirs from Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces. The Eswatini groups that participated included the Manzini Choir, Mbabane Methodist Choir, Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) Choir, and the Emmanuel Methodist Choir. Their performances were noteworthy, showcasing the country's rich choral talent.
In the Premier Category, the Manzini Choir secured a second-place finish, guaranteeing them a spot in the national finals at Sun City in December. The Mbabane Methodist Choir finished in sixth position, while the REPS Choir landed in eighth position. Their placements mean their spots in the finals depend on the performance of groups in other provincial eliminations. If a choir in another region achieves a higher score, they could replace the Eswatini groups on the final roster.
The Emmanuel Methodist Choir achieved top honours in the Standard Category by placing first overall. This victory automatically advanced them to the final stage at Sun City. According to Mlungisi Dlamini, Public Relations Officer of the Eswatini National Choral Music Association (ENCMA), the association is proud of the local groups' achievements. He expressed happiness about the choirs' dedication and progress.
Tsepo Sigwane, Conductor of the Emmanuel Methodist Choir, shared his excitement following their first-place victory. He noted that the choir's hard work during rehearsals paid off on stage. The choir's performance was well received by the audience and adjudication, leading to their top position in the category. Sigwane highlighted that competing successfully on an international stage marks a significant milestone for the choir's ongoing development.
Sigwane also mentioned that the elimination felt very competitive and interesting, with the choir competing against other groups that have already secured top spots in the log. The regional eliminations are continuing across other provinces, and the Eswatini choral community is eagerly awaiting the final results. They hope to see additional local choirs join the Manzini Choir and Emmanuel Methodist Choir on the Sun City stage in December.
The Eswatini National Choral Music Association is encouraged by the progress of local choirs. The association's Public Relations Officer expressed pride in the choirs' achievements, stating that it is encouraging to see their current position. The choirs' performances have showcased Eswatini's rich musical talent, and their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
The national finals of the Tiro Mpane Foundation National Choral Eisteddfod will take place at Sun City in December. The Manzini Choir and Emmanuel Methodist Choir have already secured their spots, and Eswatini's choral community is hopeful that more local choirs will join them. The event promises to be an exciting celebration of choral music, with talented groups from across the country competing for top honours.
Key points
- Emmanuel Methodist Choir secured first position in the Standard Category
- Manzini Choir guaranteed a spot in the national finals at Sun City
- Eswatini choirs showcased rich choral talent at regional eliminations
