SowetanLive.co.za: 'Tribute to the choir master'

VOCALLY GIFTED: Voices of the Nation choir during the choral tribute to honour Professor Mzilikazi Khumalo on his 80th birthday celebrations in Joburg. PHOTO: ANTONIO MUCHAVE

Sowetan Live

May 28, 2012 | Patience Bambalele

"The legendary composer, arranger, conductor and teacher was honoured for his immense contribution to choral music.


"Ali Mpofu, the man behind the idea, praised Khumalo for constantly pushing for the preservation of choral and indigenous sounds. Khumalo, who turns 80 on June 20, sat next to his wife listening tentatively to choirs singing some of his best works.


"The first choir on stage was Gauteng Choristers who rendered three items.
Kopanong Chorus also came on stage sang three songs. Sounds of the Nation and Voices of the Nation also gave beautiful performances. Though people enjoyed all the choir performances, but it was Sounds of Nation that wowed the crowd with a love song entitled Thula S'thandwa Sami."

[J.S. Mzilikazi Khumalo was born June 20, 1932 and is profiled at AfriClassical.com]