The South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) as it is affectionately known by thousands of young choristers across the country is upon us again. Now in its 14th year, SASCE remains one of the most crucial school enrichment programmes that promote unity in diversity, national reconciliation, a new South African National Identity, social transformation and social cohesion among learners.
Young choristers will take to the stage for the South African School Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) competition, which will run over three days from 15 - 17 July 2014. SASCE has done South Africa proud as it gives learners a platform to socialise while competing for top honors at a national championship in choral music during the school holidays in July.
SASCE targets learners who are passionate about music and whose talent has never been denied a public platform on which to shine. Renowned for its popularity among learners, SASCE was established in 2001 with the core focus of improving school music competitions.
The eThekwini Municipality will play host to the 2014 SASCE at the Durban ICC, firmly placing the spotlight on the country’s top choral music talent on a stage that has been graced by some of music’s most esteemed names such as Trey Songz, Miguel, Mafikizolo and Ladysmith Black Mambazo to mention but a few.
In this, a time when South Africa celebrates 20 years of Freedom and Democracy, music, has long been one of the tools used to emancipate the people, spread messages of hope and celebrate our gains, it is thus fitting that the 2014 prescription is reflective of this celebratory mood. Learners will perform pieces by Mr Qinisela Sibisi such as “Never Again” and “Lilizela Mzansi” are some of the many pieces that will be performed by talented learners in the 2014 SASCE. It comes naturally that music is a centre piece of celebrating the attained democracy and the strides made by this country in the past 20 years.
Through this competition government’s aim is ensuring that learners are safe for the entire school holiday while preparing them for various careers in music. This is an opportunity for learners and conductors to showcase their talent on a national platform.
The role of SASCE in the schooling system has been acknowledged by many teachers in the country. It is with the help of programs such as SASCE that the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is able to contribute to the mitigation of learner’s engagement in inappropriate activities such drugs, alcohol and the adverse activities that manifest themselves. This has positive impact towards Government campaign such as stop rape campaign and child protection week that were launched recently.
The department encourages parents, teachers and all stakeholders to visit the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) during the course of the three days of the competition to bask in the spotlight of this extravagant music spectacle and in so doing support the choirs and enjoy some soothing and fulfilling music at the national championships from 15 -17 July 2014 where entrance is free.
Enquiries:
Balosang Sanki Lerefolo
Cell: 082 836 8703
