Musical Workshop with Joburg Dominican Convent School

The Tindall Recital Hall recently played host to a musical workshop, set up by Sherborne Girls and led by the Dominican Convent School from Johannesburg. Members of the Chamber Choir took part in an uplifting musical feast of a capella choral music, sometimes performing in four parts and at other times accompanied by five marimbas and drums. The 60-strong choir of 13 to 18 year-olds created an enormous passion and energy which was both moving and powerful. All the music learnt during the workshop was entirely taught by ear, making use of a longstanding tradition which places music at the centre of South African life: nearly everyone grows up singing songs about faith, about family life and marriage, and their music is used to teach community values to children.

All who took part in the workshop were inspired by the completely different style of singing which was required of them and the Chamber Choir much regretted that, owing to sporting and other commitments, they were unable to attend the concert given by Dominican in the Abbey later the same day. Dominican stayed in boarding house accommodation both at Sherborne School and also at Sherborne Girls, and all involved with this memorable morning hope that they will return to Sherborne at some point in the not too distant future.

Posted: Thursday, June 21, 2012