There are quite a few things that are unique or world class in South Africa, and the Drakensberg Boys' Choir is one of them.
Doors opened in 1965 to the first 20 pupils. The dream was of a multi-racial, multi-cultural Choir School to rival the Vienna Boys.
Not in the middle of a history-rich, ancient European city. But in the boondocks. In a beautiful, rural, sparsely populated valley in the Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. The first and only one of its kind on the continent.
Today the annual intake is 100 boys between 9 and 15, and auditions are held nation-wide.
Can you think of anything more sublime than crisp, mountain air, majestic mountains, azure skies and natural beauty as far as the eye can see, complemented by the pure tones of counter-tenor harmony?
The Drakensberg Boys' Choir tours overseas every year and is internationally recognized as one of the best in the world. And they aren't just holier that thou brats either ? after hours they're into rapids tubing, abseiling and hiking in their Drakensberg paradise. They work hard and play hard.
Be prepared for diversity. If you like a good dirge, stay away. The Drakensberg Boys' Choir has very catholic tastes. The first half of the concert is classical. You might hear Bach or Beethoven or Mozart. The second half can be anything. It could be Queen. (Freddie Mercury would have loved it). Or folk, or jazz, or sacred music. Or African harmonies you've never heard before that will bring tears to your eyes.
Come with tissues. And a jersey, for the goosebumps. But whatever you do, BE THERE. The Drakensberg Boys' Choir performs most Wednesdays during term time at 3.30 p.m. There is a world class auditorium on campus.
So if you're coming to South Africa ? sure Cape Town's good and you need the Big 5. But you really shouldn't miss this. Sublime Drakensberg experience!
The Drakensberg Boys? Choir School was founded in 1965, with 20 students. The dream? To build something that would rival the Vienna Boys? Choir. But not in a European city steeped in history and tradition. In the boondocks. In the middle of the magnificently scenic Champagne Valley in the Central Drakensberg.
They call them South Africa's singing ambassadors. And if you're planning a trip to South Africa this is something you just have to put on your itinerary. Yes, yes I know you're going to Cape Town and you want to do a wildlife safari but this is not to be missed. They'll give you goosebumps and they'll make you cry. And you'll never forget them. They tour and compete internationally every year.
Now, they take in about 100 children a year. It's not that easy to get in and auditions are held countrywide. They get a first-class education and a very active outdoor lifestyle in their rugged Drakensberg paradise. So think crisp mountain air. Big blue skies. In the winter, snow-capped peaks. And exquisite tenor harmonies.
Where, when and how much? Let's start with where. Well once you've ticked the Big 5 and had your fill of Table Mountain, you're going to need to take a little detour into KwaZulu Natal. Find Route 600 into the Central Drakensberg and you're there. When? Every Wednesday afternoon during school terms at 3:30. (Although it's a relatively big 600-seater auditorium in the middle of nowhere, booking is essential ? phone (+27 (0)36 468 1012). How much? R75. That's about $10 U.S.
And the music? Well the first half of the 3-hour concert is classical. Mozart, Bach, Beethoven ? they do the gamut. Then hang onto your seat and prepare yourself for diversity. It could be Queen, music from the movies or gut-wrenching African rhythms and harmonies. A spellbinding and enthralling performance.
South Africa's Singing Ambassadors - The Drakensberg Boys? Choir. They Will Rock You!
Brian Kemp has sinced written about articles on various topics from Travel and Leisure. Brian & Janette Kemp own , a 4-star retreat in the foothills of the. Brian Kemp's top article generates over 1300 views. to your Favourites.