Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Mr Enver Surty was full of praise for the learners competing in the 2013 South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod during his visit to the competition on Tuesday, 3 July 2013.
Day two of the annual school choral competition saw choirs and soloists made up of learners in the Senior Phase (Grades 7-9) competing for top honours in 12 categories.
The singers entertained the crowds packed into the auditorium at Rhema Church in Randburg, Johannesburg, from early into the morning until late into the evening as schools from across the country exhibited their extraordinary talents.
Addressing the audience at Rhema, Deputy Minister Surty hailed the participants who came from far and wide to compete against the future of South Africa’s cultural talent.
“I am very pleased to be here and have fond memories as a spectator of this competition. And as we gather here today I am sure you would agree with me that we dedicate our efforts at this competition to former President Mandela,” said the Deputy Minister.
This year the theme of SASCE reflects the call by Minister Motshekga to foreground inclusive education and rightfully so, as every citizen should be given the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
“Next year we celebrate 20 years of Democracy and we are working to ensure that SASCE 2014 reflects the achievements of the democratic government. However, while we must sing and celebrate our successes we should acknowledge that we still have much to do and this should reflect in our celebrations,” concluded Deputy Minister Surty.
Day 2 winners
Own Choice Category: Any Voice Combination (Special Schools only):
- Arthur Blaxall, KZN
- Soprano Concert Solo: Umso JS, NC
- Mezzo Soprano Concert Solo: Birdswood, KZN
- Tenor Concert Solo: Sivile, WC
- Baritone/Bass Concert Solo: Edamini, KZN
- SSA Sextets: Harmony Park, MP
- SATB Mixed Double Quartet: Morningside, KZN
- Mixed Choirs (Western): Birdswood, KZN
- Mixed Choirs (Afrkaans): Cofimvaba Village, EC
- Mixed Choirs (African): Lusikisiki Village, EC
- SATB Choir National Anthem: Lusikisiki Village, EC
- HIV/Aids Jingle and Folklore: Kwa Qonda, EC
SASCE 2013: Day 1
Day one of the 2013 South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod saw the auditorium of Rhema Ministries in Randburg, Johannesburg, reverberate with the sound of music and joyous celebration as the top school choirs in the country came together to strut their stuff.
The first day of the competition saw learners from schools in the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-7) competing in eight categories.
The winners of the eight categories are listed below:
- Own Choice Category: Arthur Blaxall Primary School, KZN
- SSA Sextets: Imbasa PS, Eastern Cape
- SATB Mixed Double Quartet: Morningside Primary School, KZN
- Mixed Choir (Western): Vusukukhanya Primary School, KZN
- Mixed Choirs (Afrikaans): Lukhanji Primary School, Eastern Cape
- Mixed Choirs (African): Mbalenhle Primary Schoo, KZN
- SATB Choir (National Anthem): Bosabosele Primary School, NW
- Folklore Item: A re Itshokeng, NW
