Drakensberg Boys Choir Music in the City 2025 returns to Joburg

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – The internationally acclaimed Drakensberg Boys Choir (affectionately known as Drakies) is set to once again captivate audiences with the highly anticipated Music in the City 2025. This four-day choral showcase will occur from 18 to 21 June 2025 on the iconic Nelson Mandela Stage at Joburg Theatre. Marking its third year, this world-class musical celebration promises an enthralling blend of classical masterpieces, contemporary hits, and African choral harmonies that define the unique Drakie sound.

Executive Head of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School, Hendrik Bekker, expresses his enthusiasm for this year's event, saying, "Music in the City has become a flagship annual event where we showcase the exceptional talent of our Choir. The energy and passion of these boys, combined with a diverse repertoire, make for an unforgettable musical experience."

This year's event also marks a transition in leadership, as Jacques Linde steps into the Head of Choral Activity role from 1 April 2025. Linde takes over from Vaughan van Zyl, who has led the Choir with distinction over the past four years. Van Zyl's tenure saw remarkable achievements, including the Choir's triumphant tour of England, where they received standing ovations – even from British royalty. The Drakensberg Boys Choir School thanks Vaughan for his dedication and wishes him well in his future endeavours.

Linde, a Drakies alumnus and former conductor, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having recently served as Head of Music at Maritzburg College. "Stepping onto the podium for my first Music in the City is an honour. I look forward to bringing new energy and fresh interpretations while preserving the rich tradition that makes the Drakensberg Boys Choir a South African treasure," says Linde.

Music in the City 2025 line-up

The Nelson Mandela Stage at Joburg Theatre provides the perfect setting for the Choir's dynamic and visually captivating performances. Audiences can expect soaring harmonies, powerful drum beats, and exhilarating choreography that showcase why the Drakensberg Boys Choir remains one of the most sought-after choral ensembles globally.

"The boys pour their hearts and souls into preparing for this yearly showcase. The combination of their hard work and the incredible atmosphere of the Joburg Theatre always makes for a truly unforgettable experience," states Bekker.

Audiences can look forward to an electrifying line-up featuring the following concerts:

The Voices of Unity Choral Celebration on 18 and 19 June will unite Drakies and guest choirs, uniting voices in an uplifting choral showcase that celebrates harmony and collaboration.

The Friday and Saturday evening concerts will be dedicated solely to the Drakensberg Boys Choir, featuring a stunning musical journey through various genres, from timeless classical works to dynamic African rhythms and foot-stomping pop medleys. The Saturday Gala Concert will be a grand spectacle, celebrating the essence of the Choir's artistry and excellence.

Seats are limited, and previous editions have sold out quickly, so book now to secure your place at this extraordinary musical celebration.

Nothing unites a nation like music

"Nothing unites a nation like music. The Drakensberg Boys' Choir, a truly South African cultural asset also fondly known as Drakies, is blessed and fortunate to bring choral and music lovers across the globe the most beautiful and entertaining music, either through live performances, streaming, or recordings of their outstanding work," says Bekker

Jointly hosted by the Drakensberg Boys Choir School Parent Association, the school, and Joburg Theatre as a fundraiser, the celebratory Drakensberg Boys Choir Music in the City 2025 aims to strengthen the DBCS bursary fund for talented boys to join the Choir.

Attending this world-class choir school is often a lifelong dream fulfilled for many of our talented boys. The blessing of talent does not only come to boys from families who can self-fund their children's unique schooling in the Drakensberg. The bursary fund plays a critical role in giving deserving boys the opportunity to make their bow on the world choir stage, an honour that they would not have had without generous donations.

"We are proud of the young men the school produces, and the benefits of choral music as part of the educational curriculum are well known. Our boys regularly win scholarships and are sought after by prestigious schools when they leave the school after grade nine. We are a middle school, ending in grade nine," states Bekker.

Under the banner Music is Our Ministry, the Drakensberg Boys Choir School boasts an internationally acclaimed program that combines the art of choral singing and performance with rigorous academic training. The DBCS mission is to prepare boys for life and leadership through excellence in music, academics, sport, and social enrichment in a Christian environment. The school firmly believes that every boy's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is paramount and is committed to upholding that as a priority. The boys leave DBCS as well-adjusted young men equipped to face the challenges of their late high school years and beyond.

FIN
​(868 words)

Willem S Eksteen

DBCS Board Director, Stone on behalf of Drakensberg Boys Choir School

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