Inkosi Albert Luthuli
19 July 2007
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sibusiso Ndebele will deliver the keynote address at
the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Choral Music Eisteddfod to be held on Saturday, 21
July 2007 commencing at 09h00 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre in
Durban.
Albert Mvumbi John Luthuli was born in 1898 in what is now called Zimbabwe.
In his life Luthuli became a teacher, preacher, chief of the Groutville
community and political leader. He was a man of peace. On 10 December 1961 he
was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo, Norway. On 21 July 1967 Luthuli died
under tragic circumstances.
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government declared 2007 as the Year of
Luthuli. As part of the commemorations, the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Choral Music
Eisteddfod will be held on 21 July 2007. The Inkosi Albert Luthuli Choral Music
Eisteddfod seeks to utilize all forms of choral music making and associated
activities in order to promote the legacies of Inkosi Albert Luthuli through
focused song. Choirs from the various districts of the province will come
together to compete in the provincial finals.
Choral music is popular in most communities. It is used as a community and
nation builder. In an ethno musicological sense, choral music ranges from
traditional Zulu amahubo to isicathamiya, wedding songs and the written
eclectic school-type songs sung by choirs. It instils discipline and self
confidence and also places several demands on those involved. It demands
exemplary behaviour because, by virtue of being involved in any form of music
making, people are put on display. Ordinary people discuss musicians and their
music and create heroes and role models out of them.
Media are invited to attend. Please note picture opportunities. Journalists
attending must confirm their attendance by no later than 13h00 on Friday, 20
July 2007 as per the contact details listed below.
For further information contact:
Logan Maistry
Premier's Spokesperson
Cell: 083 6444 050
Email: maistryl@premier.kzntl.gov.za
Issued by: KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
19 July 2007
