Mohalenyane Phakela
THE choral group of the Serumula Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) is set to perform Ludwig Van Beethoven’s Mass in C Major, Op. 86 in a red carpet event slated for Lehakoe Club on 9 April 2016.
According to the event’s Project Marketing Coordinator Matiea Rakoti, the event would be held under the theme “Easter Reflections Through Music” and feature a South African group called Classical Orchestra.
German composer, Beethoven, was commissioned to write the mass in 1807 by Hungarian Prince Nikolaus Esterházy, which the former performed on 13 September of the same year. The mass is renowned for its combination of masterly form and religious understanding.
Rakoti said they normally hold the show during the Easter holiday but decided to postpone it to 9 April 2016 so they could make adequate preparations.
“Serumula has dedicated itself to celebrating Easter by performing songs from classical mass pieces that appeal to our fans,” she said.
“The shows have been successful beyond our expectations, and this year we decided to add a bit of flair to the event by choosing one of the hardest classical pieces and featuring an orchestra from South Africa, which will be a first in this country.”
The composition is consists of four soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), a four-part choir and a symphony orchestra.
“The show will have two forms, the full mass which will involve the whole choir and then the other section which will see our soloists, duets and trios perform different songs,” said Rakoti, adding that the show was also meant to sharpen their choral skills.
“Our choir participates in many competitions that feature different sub-genres of choral music. Therefore, the Easter shows are meant to improve our competency in classic choral music.”
The SPAA Choral Group is one of the biggest harmonic ensembles in the country. It was formed in 2007 and, over the years, has won a number of accolades including the National Choir Festival competition and Lengau Choral Music Association gongs.
