×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Preserving isicathamiya

MAKING MUSIC: Sobantu High is aiming for the grand prize in the Caltex Isicathamiya Competition.
MAKING MUSIC: Sobantu High is aiming for the grand prize in the Caltex Isicathamiya Competition.

AFRICAN traditional music styles such as isicathamiya are becoming more popular and their potential for international growth is enormous.

That is why seasoned groups such as Durban Black Drifters have made sure isicathamiya does not die.

Black Drifters started a high school isicathamiya competition in 1998 to encourage the youth to develop a passion for the music.

Group leader Chris Ntuli says since he started the competition more and more young groups have emerged.

Ntuli says though winning does not guarantee a recording deal, it earns the groups recognition in the community.

Last year's winners, Sobantu High School from Pietermaritzburg, say being part of these competitions has helped them a lot.

Group leader Mzi Mngadi says: "We see a huge difference (in the learners). When we have performances people from the township come in big numbers to see the group performing. We use the group as a draw card whenever we have events."

Mngadi says last year they walked away with the third prize. This year they are aiming for the grand prize. He says competitions like these play a big role in shaping the lives of the youth.

"Singing isicathamiya instils discipline in them. As a group we spend most of our time rehearsing. The free time we get we utilise for rehearsals. More than that, since they sing cothoza, we encourage them to be neat and dress appropriately.

"The good thing is that this has even spread to other learners."

This year the annual Isicathamiya Choir Festival will take place on May 4 at the Playhouse Opera theatre.

About 60 choirs from Durban townships and surrounding areas will compete in the vibrant, energetic and youth-based music competition.

"We have cash prizes, trophies, certificates and give-aways. The event aims to preserve, promote and develop isicathamiya at grass-root level," Ntuli says.

Veteran isicathamiya groups such as High Stars, Natal Try Singers and Imbokodo kaCothoza will entertain the audience.

Over the past 19 years Black Drifters have been involved in teaching isicathamiya in townships, urban areas and rural schools.

The group has toured France, Belguim, China, Norway, Japan, Canada Chicagoand the US.

Ntuli says his passion for music started in Nkandla, where he grew up. He was inspired by groups such as the Dlamini Home Defenders and King Star Brothers.

In 1993 he formed his group, which has disbanded and reformed twice with new members.

The competition is sponsored by Caltex.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.