Members of the Miami Children’s Chorus Advanced Chorus returned from a 10-day choral tour of South Africa on Sunday, June 26.
Choristers were met at Miami International Airport by parents and family members who were anxiously waiting to hear about their exciting trip.
The journey began with a 10-hour flight to Frankfurt, Germany, followed by a flight to Paris, France, a 15-hour layover in Paris, and another 10-hour flight to South Africa, where the group landed in Johannesburg.
While in South Africa the choristers had the opportunity to perform along side some of that country’s most talented choral groups and to share American culture and joy of singing with South African audiences.
The tour took MCC members to Johannesburg, Soweto, Pretoria and Cape Town. It featured: four concert presentations including joint concerts with South African choirs, two workshops/choral exchanges with local South African conductors and choirs, and a world premier performance of a new South African song. Activities also included a game reserve safari experience, and a community service project with a local school where choristers spent an afternoon singing, dancing, and playing with the children of Masiphumelele Primary School.
In addition MCC members were able to see some of South Africa’s historic sites such as Nelson Mandela’s House, as well as some of the most breathtaking views South Africa has to offer such as Table Mountain and Cape Point.
The people of South Africa proved extremely hospitable and friendly.
Classical Movements Inc. planned the tour and the Ihlombe Choral Music Festival provided the opportunity to perform with some of the best choirs in South Africa.
For more information on the Miami Children’s Chorus, the 2011 South Africa Tour, and the coming 2011-12 MCC concert season, call 305-662-7494 or send email to amendez@miamichildrenschorus.org.
For pictures and videos of Miami Children’s Chorus visit online at www.mccmedia.weebly.com.
