SOWETO Gospel Choir is undertaking a 30-city tour of Britain, in the wake of its headline appearance at the 2004 Edinburgh Festival.
En route to the Festival Hall in London, the choir will present the songs and rhythms of the South African townships at the Grand Opera House, York, on September 18 at 7.30pm.
African gospel originated as a blend of traditional music rooted in song and percussion combined with the influence of 19th century missionary music. From this a new style of music evolved, celebrating all facets of daily life in songs of earthy rhythms and rich harmonies.
Soweto Gospel Choir formed in 2002 and was an instant sensation in its British debut, selling out its Edinburgh Festival shows last summer and prompting The Scotsman reviewer to eulogise: "Nothing can really prepare you for the riot of exuberance and depth of emotion".
Tours of Asia, Australia and New Zealand were equally well supported, and the choir went on to win the American Gospel Music Award for Best Choir 2003.
The 26 members are aged 18 to 43 and are drawn from the churches and communities in and around South Africa's most famous township. All are lead singers in their local churches and their energetic, soulful singing is complemented by a four-piece rhythm section, drumming and dancers.
Through its own charity, Vukani, the choir raises funds to support AIDS Orphans. In Edinburgh last year, audiences gathered £9,000 through collections at the end of each show, and this enabled food and essential products to be bought, giving hope and support to communities in Soweto and surrounding townships. The 2004 tour will once more raise funds for AIDS Orphans.
One of the proudest moments in Soweto Gospel Choir's short history was taking part in Nelson Mandela's 46664 Concert in November 2003, when the choir performed alongside U2 singer Bono, the Eurythmics, Anastacia, Peter Gabriel and Queen to raise awareness of HIV and AIDS in South Africa. At the launch of the 46664 Concert CD and DVD, Mr Mandela enlisted the support of the choir as international ambassadors for 46664.
Tickets for September 18 cost £12.50 to £18.50 on 0870 606 3595.
Updated: 15:40 Thursday, September 02, 2004
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