Local choir makes international impact

AFTER taking their African inspired music abroad for the first time this year, the Zululand Gospel Choir is preparing for a whirlwind of international performances next year.

The choir’s debut appearance at the ‘In the name of love’ concert in the Czech Republic earlier this year, resulted in a massive response from the European audiences.

Thanks to the help of Czech singer Lucie ‘Nozizwe’ Kostelecká, who travelled to South Africa to assist with the group’s promotional work, the choir is preparing for a busy year ahead.

‘South Africa is a wonderful example of a rainbow nation and we want to show the people of Europe how this country came together despite all it has been through,’ said Kostelecká, who performed with the choir in Czechoslovakia.

‘In Europe everyone lives busy lives and although our music is technically flawless, there is no ‘life’ to it.

‘The Zululand Gospel Choir delivered that and showed the people how they can shine on stage,’ said Kostelecká

‘Their music has soul and brings everyone together.’

After attracting so much attention abroad, the choir is now preparing their promotional pieces which will be used to secure further international performances.

Choir founders Franklyn Mkhize and Alfred Banda, alongside Lucie and Markéta Jíchová of AM Photography, will be making their way to Johannesburg this weekend to record their first promotional CD.