African Choral and Vocal Harmony Music

Ladysmith Black Mambazo : Live!

Review: For more than three decades, the story of Ladysmith Black Mambazo has been just as much about physicality and choreography as it has been about brilliant vocal harmonies. For this GRAMMY winning a cappella group that merges South African music and dance traditions with a Christian messages of compassion, love and global harmony, the music alone is only half the story. Simply put, Ladysmith Black Mambazo has to be seen to be understood. Catch a visual glimpse of these icons of South African music and dance with Live! Recorded in Akron, Ohio, in 2008, the set captures not only fourteen songs performed on the stage of EJ Thomas Hall at the University of Akron, but also forty minutes of in-depth interviews with founder, leader and musical director Joseph Shabalala and other members of the group.

Songlist: Nomathemba, This Is The Way We Do ("Ekuhlupekeri"), Long Walk To Freedom ("Halala South Africa"), Hello My Baby, Nginethemba, Thulanhliziyo, Makoti, Rain Rain Beautiful Rain, Homeless, Wentomb' unecala, Shosholoza, Amazing Grace/ Nearer My God To Thee

Ladysmith Black Mambazo : On Tip Toe

Review: If you love world music, or more specifically, the music of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, you are sure to love this academy award nominated documentary. Directed by Eric Simonson and spanning three continents, ON TIP TOE follows the captivating story of South African musician Joseph Shabalala and his unique singing ensemble. Best known on these shores for their innovative support on Paul Simon's Grammy-winning album, Graceland, Mambazo has crafted an extraordinary hybrid of traditional Zulu harmonies and unconventional Western influences, including gospel, ragtime, doo wop and even rock 'n roll. Made up of seven bass voices, a tenor, a male alto and Shabalala as lead vocalist, Mambazo amazingly incorporates the light, syncopated stomping of "Isicathamiya"(meaning "on tip toe"), a style born theough the strains of apartheid. This entertaining and informative documentary traces the fascinating origins of Shabalala's tuneful creations, featuring interviews with Paul Simon and extensive live footage of Mambazo's performances.

Soweto Gospel Choir : Live at the Nelson Mandela Theater

Review: In their five-year existence, the Soweto Gospel Choir has become a world-wide sensation, winning two Grammy Awards and selling out concert halls around the world. This DVD captures all the spontaneity and infectious spirit that makes their live appearances an unforgettable experience. This multitalented group has exploded onto the world music scene, wowing audiences with its virtuosity and passion. Drawn primarily from the churches and communities of South Africa's most famous township, the choir mixes earthy rhythms, rich harmonies, drumming, dancing, and irrepressible charisma for an experience that lifts the soul and stuns the senses. Filmed live in concert on their Australian tour, they sing a blend of traditional gospel and contemporary standards in English as well as some of the 10 other official languages of South Africa. Constantly in motion and dressed in vibrantly colored robes and textiles, with one superb soloist after another taking the lead, they offer up such highlights as "Asimbonanga," Jonny Clegg's tribute to Nelson Mandela; Peter Gabriel's "Biko"; "Mbube," the South African song that became "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"; the traditional ballad "I Bid You Goodnight"; Bob Marley's classic "One Love"; and Nkosi Sikelel'iAfrika, the South African National Anthem.

Songlist: Jesu Ngowtthu, Seteng Sediba, Izwi Lahlab Inhliziyo Yami, Ke Na Le Modisa, Ziyamazi'umelusi, One Love, River Jordan, This Little Light of Mine, If You Ever Needed The Lord, Kammatia, I'll Remember You, Jerusalem, Woza Moyam, Hakeleje, Table Music, Woza Meli Wami, Amazing Grace, Bayete, World in Union, Sisazoyivuma Le Ngoma

Ladysmith Black Mambazo : Ilembe - Honoring Shaka Zulu

Review: In the late 1700s, the Zulus were an obscure tribe of less than 2000 South African natives, ruled by a petty chief and seemingly doomed to eventual extinction. But when one charismatic and cunning young warrior, Shaka Zulu, emerged from this small, disorganized clan, the path of South African history changed forever. Ladysmith Black Mambazo has conquered nations in its own way with a joyous and spiritually charged brand of vocal music and native choreography, pays tribute to this historical icon with their latest release. The album title translates to "The Greatest Warrior," and either directly or indirectly, each of the tracks speaks to Shaka's rare combination of attributes and how they resonate in contemporary society - not just for South Africans, but for the world in general.

Songlist: O mmu beno mmu, Kuyafundw' osizini (Ilembe), Vela nsizwa, Let's Do It (Let's Fall in Love), Umon' usuk' esweni, Sizobalanda, This Is the Way We Do, Iphel' emasini, Asekhon' amatshitshi, Hlala nami, Prince of Peace, Iphel' emasini (Nature Effects)

Doreen Rao's Choral Music Experience : African Songs for Childrens Chorus

Review: "Mbiri kuna Mwari" is composed in the spirit of choral music heard at the Episcopal Cathedral in Harare, Zimbabwe, in the summer of 1993. Shona is the majority tribe in Zimbabwe and its language. The text is the Shona translation of the opening section of the Gloria of the Mass Ordinary. This traditional lullaby, "Thula, Babana," is from the eastern coastal region of South Africa. The singular sweetness of the melody has made it a favorite with South African choirs and audiences. In this arrangement, the melody is repeated several times, passing from one voice to the other, with a gradual variation and accumulation of accompanying texture, before fading into silence. Also included in this package is "Ghana Alleluia," "Kenya Melodies," and "African Celebration."

Songlist: Ghana Alleluia, Kenya Melodies, Mbiri Kuna Mwari, African Celebration

Fred Onovwerosuoke : Songs of Africa for Upper Voices

Review: Following the success of Songs of Africa (for mixed voices), Fred Onovwerosuoke presents six authentic arrangements of African songs scored for upper voices and percussion. Published in two small collections - this set for SA and the second for SSA - the songs originate from a variety of locations, including Zimbabwe, Botswana, Nigeria, and the Benin Republic. With texts to celebrate an assortment of themes, such as harvest, Christmas, play/leisure, and marriage, these arrangements are sure to delight all choirs looking for something a bit different. An English translation and a pronunciation guide are provided.

Songlist: Aluwa Sio, Aleluya!, Kayra Sillo, Irapada, Yesu Sore, HJeppepe!

Various Arrangers : African A Cappella

Review: Selected for the Ron Kean Multicultural Series, "African Processional" utilizes sounds from African folk songs and a joyful chorus emerges with an occasional solo interjection. "Ning Wendete" is a traditional folk song from Kenya and is a conversation between a man and a woman. "I love you, but you do not love me. How is that? If you do not love me, you had better tell me so." Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice. "The Coca Cola Song" is a playful contemporary African folksong and is a lot of fun to perform with layered vocal parts, African percussion, and humorous references to the choir members singing. Celebrative and highly rhythmic, "African Noel" shines with energy and excitment. Contrasting dynamics and optional percussion make this one a real creative and refreshing Christmas selection. Beautiful in its simplicity, your choir will have fun with this one!

Songlist: African Processional, E Oru O, Ning Wendete, O Sifuni Mungo, An African Song Game (The Coca Cola Song), African Noel

Various Arrangers : African Folk Songs

Review: The first two South African Folk Songs are in Shangani. The first seems to be in recognition of the arrival of the first white settlers off the west coast of Africa, ostensibly in the 17th century. The second, Tulan, Nimamele!, speaks for itself. They are both best done in a strong, boisterous fashion. Freedom Come is The closing movement of Bandari: Inside These Walls, a five-movement work encompassing a variety of African styles and combining Swahili and English texts. Freedom Come is written in the style of a South African freedom song; it creates an atmosphere in which hope can increase, healing can occur, and connections to our common humanity can be strengthened.

Songlist: Two South African Folk Songs, Kpanlongo, Freedom Come, Keep quiet and listen, See, coming at a distance, the German ship

Various Arrangers : African Folk Songs Vol. 2

Review: Two distinctive cultures combine in the unique choral change-of-pace known as 'An Afro-Celtic Diddle.; Featuring African percussion and Irish-inspired vocals, this delightful piece is fun, fun, fun! Disney's powerful African song, 'One by One.' will bring down the house. 'Dubula' is a folk song of the Xhosa people of South Africa. The style is boisterous, party-hardy and open-throated. The South African Zulu song, 'Womoweh (Mbube),' was first recorded in the early 1940s by Solomon Linda. Pete Seeger later transcribed the song for The Weavers. Once adapted to their own style, it become one of their greatest hits. The Five African songs in 'Hamba Lulu' have a rhythmic energy that propels the music and stirs the human spirit. With a variety of performance options, this collection will be an outstanding addition to your choral library. Stephen Hatfield's fun tune, 'African Celebration' is gem that can be used in any concert series needing that extra world music flavor, it comes complete with a pronunciation guide to help you and your choir learn the music!

Songlist: An Afro-Celtic Diddle, One by One, Dubula, Wimoweh (Mbube), Hamba Lulu, African Celebration

Various Arrangers : Songs of Africa for Female Voices

Review: Here's a wonderful selection of well crafted arrangements African folk songs for unaccompanied female voices. "Amavolovolo" is a popular Zulu traditional song as arranged by Rudolf de Beer, former conductor of the Drakensbeg Boys Choir of South Africa. What a vivid connection to the people and culture of that part of the world! Authentic percussion and movement suggestions give this selection great visual appeal. "Ogo Ni Fun Oluwa" is an exuberant celebration of the birth of Christ through layered African polyrhythms and call-and-response vocal phrases. The singers encourage the audience to rejoice, shout and clap with them, making this selection a wonderful processional or concert opener. Percussion, Yoruba translation and pronunciation are included. "N'kosi Sikelel' I Afrika" is a dignified song, a Pan-African Anthem and is sung throughout the continent. This setting may be sung a cappella, or with chimes and layered percussion. "Mohlang ke kgotlelang hae" is a popular South African traditional song as arranged by Rudolf de Beer. What a vivid connection to the people and culture of that part of the world! Includes percussion and pronunciation guide.

Songlist: Mohlang ke kgotlelang hae (When I Return Home), N'kosi Sikelel' I Afrika, Ogo Ni Fun Oluwa, Amavolovolo

Various Arrangers : Songs of Africa for Female Voices Vol 2

Review: Bobobo is a traditional dance of the Ewe people in the Volta Region of Ghana. There are many variations from village to village, and many songs may be used. A village rendition is a lively event and will often last all day or night. The popular worship song "Hakuna Mungu Kama Wewe " from Kenya can be performed in a variety of ways, by adding movement while singing, incorporating percussion instruments into the performance, or as a processional. Opening with a simple unison melody, the song progresses into two parts and finally adds a descant-like 3rd voice part. "Nakutakia Siku Njema! " is accessible for young choirs, and makes fun of common tourist phrases in Swahili, so don't look for a deep meaning in the text! A rhythmic pulse provides lots of fun for the singers and creates an exciting performance! "Duond Akuru" is based on the Kenyan phrase for "the voice of the dove" this composition combines the imagery of the African landscape and its musical essence.

Songlist: Bobobo Suite, Duond Akuru, Nakutakia Siku Njema! (Have a nice day), Hakuna Mungu Kama Wewe

Various Arrangers : Songs of Africa for Male Voices

Review: "Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain" - The famed South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo led by Joseph Shabalala creates moments of transformative beauty with their unique sound and vivid imagery. Choirs will enjoy recreating this evocative work. "Harambee" - In Kenya, the Swahili word harambee has multiple meaning. When a group of people gather to complete a difficult physical task, they often say, "one, two, thre ... harambee!!" In this context the words means: "let's go, let's get it done." A special gathering to raise money for building a church or school is also called a harambee. These gatherings often feature long speeches, music and dancing. In the context of this composition, harambee means unity - working together. In a time of increased multi-cultural awareness, Bwana Awabariki offers an ideal piece of African culture for both churches and schools. The song emphasizes rhythm, blend, and African-style vocalism with broad, open chords and the familiar low, low bass part. This warm a cappella blessing would be especially effective with added percussion. This a cappella setting of a traditional South African praise song "Gabi, Gabi" just bursts with joyful energy. Dynamic contrast, percussion and a wide range of layered vocal textures make this an appealing concert choice.

Songlist: Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain, Harambee, Bwana Awabariki, Gabi, Gabi

Various Arrangers : Zulu Songs

Review: The famed South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo led by Joseph Shabalala creates moments of transformative beauty with their unique sound and vivid imagery. Choirs will enjoy recreating the evocative classic "Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain". "Amavolovolo" is a popular Zulu traditional song as arranged by Rudolf de Beer, former conductor of the Drakensbeg Boys Choir of South Africa. What a vivid connection to the people and culture of that part of the world! Authentic percussion and movement suggestions give this selection great visual appeal. The Zulu dowry song "Imaliyam" will be a challenging and impressive concert feature. An excellent choice for better high school choirs and up.

Songlist: Imaliyam, Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain, Amavolovolo

Anders Nyberg (Edited by) : Freedom is Coming

Review: 15 moving songs from South Africa arranged for four-part voices, complete with a foreword, musical instructions, illustrations and commentary.

Songlist: Freedom Is Coming, Asikhatali, Gabi, Gabi, Ipharadisi, Singabahambayo, Siph' amandla, Akanamandla, Bamthatha, Vula Botha, Shumayela, Nkosi, Nkosi, Siyahamba, Haleluya! Pelo Tsa Rona, Thuma Mina, We Shall Not Give Up The Fight

Fred Onovwerosuoke : Songs of Africa

Review: Songs of Africa offers an exciting collection of 22 diverse pieces of African choral music that every singer, choral director, music educator, and enthusiast will find invaluable. Fred Onovwerosuoke and the St. Louis African Chorus have transcribed and created these arrangements, which represent a wide spectrum of Africa's regions and cultural practices. The songs cover subjects such as spirituality, religion, community, work, and play, and are selected from many African countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Congo, Benin Republic, South Africa, Namibia, and Gambia. They offer not only a welcome addition to choral repertoire but also a refreshing alternative for concert settings and church services. This collection includes useful notes on performance practice and cultural context, percussion charts, translations, and a pronunciation guide.

Songlist: Abanije (The Bully), Agoro Yede ('Tis Good to Play), Aluwa sio (Alleluia), Angigye aba (The High Life), Awa eshelele, Barka (Goodwill), Bolingo yanga na Yesu (All my loove for Jesus), Efuo (Holy), Hepepe (Hurray!), Je! ajua, Yesu anipenda (Jesus, we love you), Kaanamajoo (We Thank You), Kayra Sillo (The Way of Peace), Leo kuna faraha (Lots of Joy), Mayingo (Womanhood), Om' Oba ni (The Prince), Otu b'oma (Unity is Strength), Oyele ma (Dear Mother), Pata, pata (Touching), Safari Ya Bamba (A Voyage to Bamba), Tuli, tuli, Yesu sore (Jesus, wake up), Yogho (Achievement)

Margaret Hamilton : Sing Freedom!

Review: Margaret Hamilton. This unique collection of songs from South Africa contains 35 songs of the people, performed in churches, workplaces and at gatherings. This book provides the first opportunity for churches, schools and colleges to perform these wonderful songs of liberation and Christian praise. Transcribed and introduced, including performance notes, by Maggie Hamilton and written for unaccompanied voices with guitar symbols for use with unison or two-part singing. The simplicity of many of the tunes and remaining parts makes them suitable for playing on glockenspiels, recorders or other melodic instruments. Published by Novello in association with Christian Aid. Foreword by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Songlist: Nkosi Sikelel'i Afrika (Lord Bless Africa), Inzima Lendleha (This Road is Heavy, Uthando Lwakhe (God's Love), Thuma Mina (Send Me), Tumelo Yaka ha Nkeke ka e Lathla (My Faith, I Will Never Lose It), Abasunda Nabamhlope (Blacks and Whites), Thula Sizwe (Be Silent, Nation), Tshollela Moya wa Hao, Jesu ( Pour Down Your Spirit, Lord), Hamba Vangeli (Spread the Word), Monateng Kapele (In Joy We Will Be Together), Say'ilim' Ingqolowa (We Are Ploughing Wheat), Lerato la Jeso le a Makatsa (The Love of Jesus is Wonderful), Siku rin Gwana (One Day), Ehlatin'e Lusaka (In Lusaka Bush), Studente sal Nooit Verloor (Students Will Never Lose), Stop Killing Our Children

Mike Brewer : Banuwa - Three African Songs

Review: Banuwa is a vibrant collection that presents choirs with a terrific opportunity to experience the excitement and energy of African music. Building on the success of Hamba Lulu, this volume taps into the rich seam of African culture and includes the festive song 'Banuwa', alongside Zulu bird song 'Izintakana' and the South African wedding song 'Babevuya' - coupled here with the infectious 'Walamba'.

Songlist: Banuwa, Izintakana, Babevuya / Walamba

Mike Brewer : Hamba Lulu - Five African Songs

Review: Hamba Lulu is a fantastic addition to the choral repertoire. A breath of fresh air in the classroom and for many a choir wanting a challenge. These stirring songs are additive, so you can tailor performances to local resources, increasing technical demand according to their experience. Easy to learn and sure to make an instant impact on audiences, the songs tap into the rich seam of African culture.

Songlist: Mangwani M'Pulele, O-re-mi, Karanga Walking Song, Hamba Lulu, Askha Thali

Mike Brewer : Oalla Mohololi - Three Songs From Africa

Review: Mike Brewer's Choral World Tour brings together traditional songs from around the world in exciting a cappella arrangements that will both challenge and stimulate your choir. Each piece is accompanied by a translation and pronunciation guide. In this collection, feel the pulsing rhythms of South Africa, experience the solid harmonies of a Namibian chorus, and experiment with the vocal techniques used in Tunisian song.

Songlist: Oalla Mohololi (Sotho ceremonial song from South Africa), Meguru (Kavango song from Namibia), Yelli bo'dek dhaya fikri (Love song from Tunisia)

Robert DeCormier : Choral Folk Songs From South Africa

Review: In the huge continent of Africa, the cradle of the human race, there are hundreds of different languages, hundreds of different instruments, many different types of melody, different types of antiphony (gospel churches call it "answer-back" or "call and response"). South Africa especially likes to sing in rich harmony. Three parts, four parts, five parts, six parts or more. The songs in this collection were selected, compiled and arranged by the great folk singer and musician Pete Seeger and edited by Robert DeCormier for use in schools, churches, community gatherings and homes. Through music and singing, we can experience a world of beauty, vigor, subtlety and rich variety. All a cappella with rehearsal piano.

Songlist: Abiyoyo, Hey,T'hola, T'hola, Manamolela, Bayandoyika, Inkosi Yamampondo, Bayeza (Oonomot'hot'holo), Ingoma Ya Bakweta, Somagwaza, Oalla Mohololi, Hey, Tswana, Babevuya, Ut'he Wena, Isileyi Sam, Father, Father, Goodbye, Hey, Motswala, Here's to the Couple, Vul' Emnyango, Uqongqot'hwane, Icamagu, Senzennina

Anders Nyberg : Freedom is in Your Hand

Review: Here is a new and powerful collection of songs from South Africa, celebrating the country's freedom! Following the popular first collection Freedom Is Coming, the songs in this new set are for mixed voices with solos, finger-snapping, optional drum accompaniment and more! In English and African languages.

Songlist: Forward, Performance Suggestions, Freedom Is In Your Hand, Ewe Thina (We Walk His Way), Oh Yini (Where Are You?), Sithi Jabula (My Joy Is Jesus), Hosanna Nkosi Phezulu (Hosanna Praised Be God on High), Azisenzeni na? (What Have We Done?), We Shall Never Die, Honono, I Live and Move

Dan Damon : NJALO (Always)

Review: "Njalo" is a 16 song glimpse into the world of Christianity as it presently exists in the African tradition. The production of this book was a cross-cultural collaboration between Patrick Matsikenyiri, a Zimbabwan missionary and Dan Damon, who provided very singable, English translations of these songs. Together, they created a volume with a variety of worship expressions, including songs of praise ("Baningyeti Bayawe"), thanksgiving ("Wonai"), invocation ("Mweya Mutsvene Uyai Pano"), and commitment ("Ndai Wona Hama Yakanaka"). These songs also bear the brokeness of Zimbabwean society where so many people live under the burdens of political oppression, economical turmoil, family brokeness, and the scourge of HIV/AIDS. See especially "Zviro Zvacho Zvanyanya." Includes CD.

Songlist: Always, God, We Thank You, If The Lord Would Appear Before Me, He Is There Forever, Let Us Praise The Lord Our God, There's No One In The World Like Jesus, If I'm Without Love, This Is Not Our Homeland, Holy Spirit Come By Here, Shepard God To You We Pray, I Have A Good Friend, It's Jesus, The Light Of God Comes, Those Who Wait Upon The Lord, Behold, Life Is Broken At It's Core

Various Arrangers : The Folk Rhythm - South African Folk, Church and Protest Songs

Review: The result of months of collaborative work between Patty Cuyler (Village Harmony) and Matlaka Bopape (Polokwane Choral Society), The Folk Rhythm, Volume I is a choral director's dream. 16 rich, arresting songs arranged for SATB choir, accompanied by cds to guide choruses toward an "authentic" sound (and, where appropriate, dancing) style. One of the main characteristics of South African folk and traditional music is the syncopated nature of rhythms, which often defy the measure system. An accompanying dance often adds a new rhythmic pattern to the mix, with song and dance together forming a complex and not easily defined rhythmic structure. Because of this, most songs are best understood through careful listening and close observation if one wants to capture the essence of the performance. Recordings and video therefore accompany Folk Rhythm , to assist in this regard, as notation alone cannot adequately capture all these nuances of the rich South African folk music tradition.

Songlist: Dithotonyana, Fiela, Hamba Ka Ncane, Ikhon' I Ndawo, Ithemba Lami, Jo We, Khotso Ya Morena, Khutso, Lesang Magwala A Cheche, Matlakala, Sesi We, Skhandamayeza, Thina, Thina Sizwe E Zi Minyama, Umandela Uth'a Ihlome, The South African National Anthem

Various Arrangers : The Folk Rhythm - Vol 2

Review: Includes transcriptions, two audio CDs with performance, pronunciation & practice tracks for each song, and instructional dance DVD. Also pronunciation guide to major South African languages, and introduction. Introduction by Matlakala Bopape.

Songlist: Acknowledgements, Introduction, An Explanation of Tonic Sol-fa Notation, Pronunciation Guide, Besuka, Di Bulegile Dikgoro, Ga Gona Ya Swanang Le Jesu, Matsogong, Melo Yelo, Merako Ya Jeriko, Mmatswale, Morabaraba, Moratiwa Waka, Noyana, Sebakanyana, Tate Modimo Yo Maatla, Thaba Chueu, Thato Ya Hao, Tonic Sol-fa, Verewoerd, Xihanyanomu, South African National Anthem, Track List for Accompanying CDs