African Sweet Melodies will add youthfulness to the 2009 Transnet Foundation and Sowetan Massed Choir Festival at the Standard Bank Arena on October 24.

African Sweet Melodies will add youthfulness to the 2009 Transnet Foundation and Sowetan Massed Choir Festival at the Standard Bank Arena on October 24.

With an average age of 24 and based in Sebokeng Zone 10 in the Vaal Triangle, the choir is led by tireless community worker, schoolteacher, conductor and choral, classical, traditional and folk music enthusiast TJ Sehanka.

Speaking like an ardent fan and supporter, the choir's pianist and administrative and management auxiliary, Claudia Gous, said: "I am certain the choir will add much-needed youthfulness to the festivities of the Massed Choir Festival, in which this is likely to be their fourth or fifth appearance.

"Each time has been excellent. We expect the same. It is always nice to participate in such a popular event."

While the choir has appeared in the Old Mutual-sponsored National Choir Festival several times, it is in the national schools contests that they have made their mark over the years, reaching the finals several times.

At the weekend, the choir exhibited its talent as part of the nationwide Heritage Day Celebrations. Sowetan and Transnet Foundation are proud of African Sweet Melodies.