MANANA KEBAUTLWILE

The chapel choir has grown tremendously in 2019 – from 21 choristers in March to 72 at present. It owes its success story partly to the appointment of Ms Joanie Prinsloo during the first term.

Ms Joanie Prinsloo, former choir conductor at Grey College and an accomplished violinist, studied music at the University of Cape Town. She says she decided to work with the St Michael’s choristers because she wanted to experience working with girls. She feels that being part of the Chapel Choir teaches learners the value of hard work and discipline. 

Ms Prinsloo admits that she doubted that the choir would be able to win the Cantamus! National Choir Festival and Competition in George, but the choristers gave their best and it paid off – they obtained first place in their category.

Aside from the competition, the tour to George was fun for the choristers, who enjoyed an outing to the Hartenbos beach front, the beauty of the mountain scenery in George and their stay at Pine Lodge.

Ms Prinsloo works closely with Mr Hederick Prinsloo (who assists her in coaching), Mrs Natasha Slabbert (Choir Manager), Mrs Brigitte Botha (the new accompanist and former staff member at St Michael’s) to organise the choir and encourage the choristers to work hard.

The choristers appreciate the addition of new songs that Ms Prinsloo has taught them. The popularity of their performances at Speech Night, Valedictory and Songs of Celebration testifies to the fact that Ms Prinsloo’s enthusiasm has transformed the vibe of the choir.

It’s safe to say that the chapel choir is ready to hit the high notes in 2020.