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A weekend before Easter, gospel music lovers braved the chilly weather to attend the fourth annual Easter Songs of Praise concert at the Linder Auditorium in Johannesburg.
The concert, which is the brainchild of music director and chief executive officer of Pacinamix Consultancy Manzini Zungu, has been spreading the message of hope and salvation through the melodic music of the Soweto Central Chorus of the Salvation Army, made up of an orchestra and 80 singers, and featuring the likes of Betusile Mcinga and Siphokazi Maraqana.
The concert – which was also the launch of the choir’s new DVD – filled the auditorium to capacity with gospel lovers of all ages.
The beautiful multitalented Ayanda Borotho was the emcee and I loved how she took control of the stage, oozing confidence, singing, praising, giving testimony of God’s grace and getting the audience into the mood.
The audience sat quietly absorbing the melody and the message of the opening song – Share my Yoke – a slow, touching and soothing instrumental arranged by Ndabo Zulu.
That’s when I got goose bumps and chills down my spine.
Then gospel sensation Dumi Mkokstad brought the audience to its feet with award-winning song Ulwandle. Despite his small stature he has a powerful, commanding voice that never ceases to amaze me.
Mmatema Moremi got the audience waving their hands in solidarity with her hit Make a Way. The 2015 Idols SA runner-up has a beautiful voice and cruises through different notes effortlessly. She can definitely sing! She gave me a bout of insanity when she hit the highest note of the song.
It was impressive to see how well the style of talented Afro-pop and a cappella singer Samthing Soweto of Akanamali fame was woven into the gospel and worship concert. He set the house alight with the favourite Ndikhokhele Bawo.
Former Joyous Celebration singer Xolani Mdlalose also brought life to the theatre with Avumile.
The audience reached a peak when the choir and all the artists did a joint performance of Xa ndiyekelelwa nguwe. Now the house was really on fire and, thanks to the spaciousness of the auditorium, we did not step on each other’s toes.
The concert lived up to its theme: Bringing peace and salvation through music.
Pastor Fezi Twala gave a short, inspiring sermon during what would have been an intermission.
This joyous event ushered me into the Holy Easter week with a cheerful outlook. I have no doubt that the popularity of the concert will increase in the future. I am definitely adding it to my annual Easter bucket list.
