A Magical Evening with the New Hampshire Friendship Chorus: Our First Collaborative Performance

On the afternoon of 06 July 2024, Tapestry Choir took the stage for our very first public performance, and what an unforgettable one it was!

Our hearts swelled with pride and joy as we shared this momentous occasion with our community and the esteemed New Hampshire Friendship Chorus. It was a performance to remember.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the audience walked into the venue, eagerly anticipating a concert of musical magic. From the first note of "Jubilate Deo" to the powerful harmonies of "Singabahambayo Thina", the Tapestry Choir delivered a performance that resonated deeply with everyone present. Each piece was carefully selected to showcase the diverse musical traditions that inspire us, creating a tapestry of sound that celebrated unity and cultural richness.

Highlights of the Concert

The harmonies of "Muhona", a traditional Herero hymn from Namibia, arranged by Bonnie Pereko, brought a sense of serenity with uplifting hosannas. The audience was enthralled by the hauntingly beautiful canon "Kol Dodi", a Hebrew love song that echoed with pure emotion. The lively rhythms of "Sesere eeye" from the Torres Strait Islands had everyone tapping their feet, embodying the joy and vitality of our choir.

A Special Collaboration and Dedication

Dedication

It is with great sadness that we said goodbye to a long-standing member of Wits Choir, Brown Makhura, on Tuesday, July 2nd. Dalene asked us to dedicate the song "The Lord’s Prayer," composed by David Fanshawe, in memory of Brown. He was a talented choir conductor and musician and was taken from us too soon. Brown, you will be greatly missed. Rest in peace.

Another moving moment of the performance was collaborating with the New Hampshire Corus on the isiZulu wedding song **"Ulalele Ma"**, arranged by our very own Dalene Hoogenhout. The piece, with its vibrant rhythms and dance movements, was a perfect example of sharing the rich cultural heritage with others through our performances.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We were deeply honoured to share the stage with the New Hampshire Friendship Chorus, under the masterful direction of Dan Perkins. Their repertoire was a testament to their incredible talent and dedication.

Their presence and performance added a layer of magic to the occasion that will be remembered for years to come. The collaboration truly embodied their mission of "Sharing Music and Making Friends Around the World," and we are proud to have been a part of this beautiful journey.

Looking Forward

As we reflect on our first performance, we are filled with excitement for the future. This magical concert was just the beginning of our journey. We invite you to join us for upcoming performances and to be a part of our musical community. Stay connected by subscribing to our blog for the latest updates and exclusive content.