The Cape Malay Choir Board (CMCB) hosted its annual choral competition over the past weekend, showcasing a remarkable display of talent from thirteen choirs competing across three divisions. This much-anticipated event delivered a weekend of extraordinary musical performances, underscoring the continued popularity of Malay choir singing in Cape Town.
However, the event faced a rough start. Technical difficulties with the sound system led to an unexpected delay of nearly two hours, causing frustration among attendees. The delay was acknowledged as “totally unacceptable” by the CMCB Exco, which includes myself.
“The Exco of the CMCB, myself included, takes full responsibility for it,”
a statement read. Sound challenges have been an ongoing issue at these events, often detracting from the hard work and dedication of the participating choirs. Many of these groups invest considerable time and resources to participate, and both they and the paying audience deserve an environment where their talents can shine without technical setbacks.
CMCB’s Exco remains committed to addressing these persistent sound issues to ensure that such delays do not mar future events. Despite this initial setback, the sold-out venue was a testament to the popularity of Malay choir singing in Cape Town.
The competitive spirit and talent on display made for an unforgettable weekend. In Section 1, Jonge Students took to the stage with an impressive ninety-member singpak, earning the highest points in their category. Their remarkable performance secured them first prizes across the combined chorus, moppie (comic song), and Nederlandse lied categories, an achievement that resonated with the audience.
Jonge Manhattans, another competitor in Section 1, also won the crowd’s admiration. Known for Cape Town’s support of underdogs, Jonge Manhattans performed with gusto, delivering a lively kwaai liedjie with Faghrie Adams at the lead.
Angeliere Choir won the best-dressed award in this section, with a stylish and refined presentation that added to the night’s vibrant atmosphere.
The performances in Section 2 continued to impress. Young Men Sporting Club opened this segment with a strong performance, though they did not receive the accolades many had anticipated. Their rendition of the combined chorus was heartfelt, showcasing the group’s dedication to their craft.
Young Ideas, participating for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, overcame substantial financial hurdles to be part of the event. Ebrahim Barnes, Achmat Barnes, and Rashied Titus were commended for their efforts to revive the second-oldest choir in the CMCB, ensuring that Young Ideas remained a key player in the competition.
One of the weekend’s memorable moments was the junior solo performance by Mogamat Zayd Damon of Parkdales, whose vocals earned him praise as
“Die laaitie is gevaarlik!”
The young talent left a strong impression on attendees, highlighting the promise of future generations in Malay choir singing.
Newcomers Suburban LG Boys also made a significant impact. Their outstanding performance earned them second place in this division, a feat that caught the attention of seasoned attendees. Led by Fuad Richard Jnr, who excelled in the senior solo and Nederlands liedjie categories, the choir was well-prepared thanks to the efforts of Fuad Richard Snr and his family.
A particularly notable performance in Section 2 was delivered by Ottoman SC, which left a lasting impression on the audience and judges alike.
“Die ouens kom om te wen!”
The Ottomans’ spectacular display received accolades on social media and praise on Radio 786’s live broadcast, showcasing their talent to an international audience. Winning first place in every category, they set a benchmark for other choirs to aspire to.
Section 3 saw an intense competition among the participating choirs. Marines ultimately won the section, while Rangers and Primroses shared the second-place spot, showcasing some of the weekend’s most impressive performances. Each choir brought unique flair to the traditional songs, with Marines excelling in the combined chorus and solo categories, Rangers taking first place in the Nederlandse lied category, and Primroses capturing awards for best dress and comic song.
Primroses’ young performer, nineteen-year-old Wakeel Klein, stood out in the moppie category, delivering an animated and skillful performance that led his team to victory. His accomplishment in the comic song category was especially significant, as he competed against seasoned moppie performers.
Nabeel Karriem, leading the Nederlandsliedjie for Marines, continued the legacy of his father, the late Rashied Karriem, delivering a beautiful and heartfelt performance. Meanwhile, Villagers Choir, despite encountering challenges in the lead-up to the event, managed to participate, earning respect for their perseverance.
For attendees and participants alike, the Cape Malay Choir Board’s annual competition was a showcase of the talent, dedication, and unique cultural heritage of Cape Malay choirs. With its stunning performances, the event served as a reminder of the richness of this tradition and the importance of preserving it for future generations. The quality of the singing was widely praised, leaving an undeniable sense of pride among those in attendance.
“Mense, this tradition of ours is truly beautiful and unique. We must do our utmost to preserve and grow it,”
the event’s organizers reminded the audience, urging them to continue supporting and cherishing this invaluable part of Cape Town’s cultural landscape.
Check out Malay Choir Facebook Page and Mogamad Amien’s Facebook Page for great photos.
