SA groups impress at World Choir Games 2023

The event showcased 324 groups and participants from 46 countries, celebrating the universal language of music and the brilliance of choral performances. 

The captivating opening ceremony at Gangneung Arena drew 7 000 attendees, setting the stage for sold-out performances. A staggering 63 000 visitors and 38 000 choir and staff members came together for this extraordinary 11-day musical extravaganza.

South Africa’s triumph highlighted existing talent, with other nations like Indonesia, China, and the US also earning top honours.

The Bokamoso Arts Institute Choir, led by Mohau Mogale, captivated audiences with their mesmerising harmonies and soul-stirring interpretations, topping in three highly competitive categories – C8 (Mixed Choirs), C16 (Musica Sacra with accompaniment) and C28 (Scenic Folklore). 

Not to be outdone, the St Mary's DSG Choir, conducted by Lindy van der Meulen, wove the spirit of African folklore and traditions into their performances, earning a gold medal in the Scenic Folklore category and a silver in the Scenic Pop category.

“Our theme for the Scenic Pop category was to challenge the stereotypes of beauty imposed on girls and women and was entitled ‘Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful’, whilst the theme for our Scenic Folk Category was to showcase the journey to democracy and freedom in South Africa as epitomised through the life of Nelson Mandela,” van der Meulen said. “We were very pleased with our results considering we were the only school choir in either of our categories and were competing on the world stage against strong adult choirs from all over the world.”

The prestigious girls school, founded in 1906, has a rich musical history and over the years it has nurtured exceptional vocal talents and become a symbol of excellence in choral music.

Two other South African groups, City of Roses Choir from Bloemfontein, conducted by Sibongile Mngoma, and Kholwa Brothers from Durban, led by Derrick Mlambo, earned silver in the O21 (Gospel) and s C26 (Folklore a cappella) categories, respectively. 

Founded by INTERKULTUR, the World Choir Games serve as a celebration of the universal language of music, bringing together talented choirs from around the globe to showcase their unique cultural expressions and foster cross-cultural exchange. These games play a pivotal role in uniting people across borders, celebrating diverse cultural identities, and forging lasting connections through choral music.

This year’s World Choir Games witnessed remarkable triumphs from other nations as well. Indonesia emerged as the top-performing country, securing eight gold medals, followed closely by China/Hong Kong and the Republic of Korea, each winning six gold medals. The United States and Austria clinching five and two gold medals, respectively.

INTERKULTUR founder and president Günter Titsch emphasised the significance of the event, stating: “We were impressed by the remarkable level of excellence demonstrated in the event’s organisation by our partners in Korea. I am confident that the cherished memories our participants created will resonate in their hearts for years to come.”

South Africa hosted the 10th World Choir Games in Tshwane in 2018, with Durbanville Primary School, Eversdal Primary School, UP Onderstepoort Community, Molen Kórus and Drakenberg Old Boys winning in their categories.