Cape Cultural Collective Choirs
Life is a song!
The Cape Cultural Collective has two choirs with about 60 singers. The choirs all reflect the central values of the CCC by including a diverse membership and singing in three languages.
The Rosa choir started in 2012 and has grown into a well-established and much loved choir in the City. The junior Rosa choir was formed at the end of 2015 and brings together more than 40 children from Langa, Manenberg, Kalksteenfontein and Hout Bay.
The choir is as much about singing as it is about togetherness and youth development. Â
The Rosa Choir
The Rosa Choir Project is a remarkable ensemble that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, uniting them through the power of music.
Join the Rosa Choir
We are currently inviting new singers to join the choir. You don’t need any musical training.Â
The Rosa Choir Project: A Diverse Musical Journey Breaking Barriers and Bridging Communities
With a repertoire encompassing traditional songs in Afrikaans, Xhosa, and English – and a mix of all three, this choir transcends societal divisions based on class, color, religion, language, and geography. Comprised of a wide range of members, including gospel singers, youth activists, casual workers, educators, veteran Malay choir performers, international visitors, and more, the Rosa Choir Project is an inspiring example of unity in diversity.
Through their shared commitment to music, the choir members embark on an extraordinary journey of learning, connecting with various histories, languages, and traditions.
Overcoming Spatial Divisions
An essential objective of the Rosa Choir Project is to challenge the spatial divisions that persist in Cape Town, remnants of the apartheid era in South Africa.
By organizing practices in different neighborhoods, such as Langa High School, Bonteheuwel, Heideveld Primary School, and even members’ homes across the peninsula, the choir aims to break down physical barriers and create opportunities for meaningful interactions.
The project operates under an open-door policy, welcoming anyone who wishes to join.
This inclusive approach enables participants to meet and forge connections with individuals they may not have encountered in their daily lives, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
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Rosa Choir repertoire: Lean on Me
The Rosa Choir sings popular and traditional South African songs, translated and sung to represent the language diversity of South Africa - Lean on...
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Rosa Choir repertoire: Something Inside So Strong
Throughout history, music has been a powerful medium for expressing emotions, beliefs, and social issues. One such song that has left an indelible ...
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Rosa choir repertoire: African Dream – A Musical Odyssey of Hope and Unity
Where the dream started… In the rich tapestry of South African music history, one song stands out as a timeless anthem of hope, unity, and pr...
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Rosa choir repertoire: Asimbonanga by Johnny Clegg
Johnny Clegg: The White Zulu Who Transcended Boundaries In the heart of South Africa, where diversity and cultural richness intersect, a powerful t...
Fostering Unity through Music
The Rosa Choir Project stands as a testament to the unifying power of music, as it defies historical divides and embraces cultural diversity.
The project not only entertains and transforms but also serves as an educational platform, encouraging the exploration and understanding of different cultural traditions. Every Saturday afternoon, choir members gather at various locations across Cape Town for their weekly practice sessions.
This regular gathering is more than just a rehearsal; it is an opportunity for people from all walks of life to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate their shared love for music.
Enriching Lives, One Song at a Time
The Rosa Choir Project goes beyond being just a musical endeavor; it is a force for positive change in the lives of its members and the broader community.
Through their shared passion for singing, participants experience personal growth, cultural exchange, and a deepening appreciation for diversity. The project empowers individuals to learn from one another, bridging cultural gaps and challenging preconceived notions.
Whether it’s a university lecturer, a marathon runner, a casual worker, or an actress, each member brings their unique talents and perspectives, enriching the collective experience of the choir.
The Rosa Choir Project demonstrates that music can be a catalyst for positive change, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.
You can support the Junior Choir!
Yes, you can financially support the Junior Rosa choir. Find out more by emailling us on the email button below.Â
The Junior Rosa Choir
Empowering Young Voices: The Junior Rosa Choir’s Impact on Cape Town’s Youth
In the vibrant neighborhoods of Manenberg, Langa, Kalksteenfontein, and Gugulethu in Cape Town, South Africa, a remarkable initiative is transforming the lives of 30 young individuals.
Meet the Junior Rosa Choir, a group of talented children between the ages of 10 and 14, who have discovered their worth and a sense of belonging through the power of music.
Established in 2015 by the Cape Cultural Collective, this choir has become a sanctuary for these young singers, nurturing their confidence and promoting unity across cultural, language, and spatial barriers.
Weekly Practices and Camaraderie
Every week, the Junior Rosa Choir gathers for practice at the picturesque PHA farm in Phillipi, where they can freely express themselves and experience the joy of singing without inhibition.
Led by their dedicated choir director and music teacher, Tersia Harley, and supported by Project Manager Aziza Davids, as well as Community Support workers David Collins and Mavie Cosa, the young singers explore a diverse repertoire that includes songs in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa, the three regional languages.
Nurturing Holistic Development
The impact of the Junior Rosa Choir extends beyond music. Participation in this transformative program has been shown to improve the children’s learning abilities and promote overall harmony among the singers.
The choir members are not only offered transportation from their homes to the practice venue, but they also receive nutritious lunches and snacks during each session, ensuring their physical well-being is supported alongside their artistic growth.
Finding Identity and Belonging
For 14-year-old Rachel, being a part of the choir has been a life-changing experience.
With a sparkle in her eyes and a smile that lights up the room, Rachel proudly expresses,
“When I am with the choir, I feel like somebody who is worth something.”
These heartfelt words encapsulate the profound impact that the Junior Rosa Choir has had on its members.
A Safe Haven for Growth
The atmosphere during choir practice is filled with palpable excitement and energy. As the children raise their voices in unison, their confidence and self-esteem visibly grow. Singing together serves as a powerful catalyst, breaking down cultural barriers, bridging language gaps, and fostering a sense of unity among the diverse members of the choir.
Unforgettable Performances and Annual Events
The Junior Rosa Choir’s journey culminates in memorable performances throughout the year.
Whether they are showcasing their talents at local events or taking the stage at the annual concert, the young singers captivate audiences with their harmonious voices and captivating stage presence.
Additionally, the choir members eagerly anticipate the summer camp, a cherished annual tradition where they deepen their musical skills and forge lifelong friendships.
Through the dedicated leadership of Tersia Harley, Aziza Davids, David, Mavie, and the entire support network, the Junior Rosa Choir has become an empowering force for the youth of Cape Town.
By providing a safe space for self-expression, fostering unity among diverse backgrounds, and promoting holistic development, this choir exemplifies the transformative power of music.
With each note they sing, the young members of the Junior Rosa Choir reaffirm their worth and inspire others to find their own voices in the world.