It actually took a strange event
for me to realise that we should not wait for people's demise before we honour
them. My partner got what we call a "visa" to go out and party till
very late. When he came back home, I could not fall asleep. When this happens I
usually raid the fridge, make a snack and read a book. But Prof. Mzilikazi
Khumalo had been on my mind ever since another musical talent, Sidwell Mhlongo
revived Prof. Khumalo's gem. Ushaka. This was in itself an honour to South
Africa's living legend. The 2015 grand performance by Gauteng Choristers, under
Mhlongo's baton was, for me a call to introspect and recognise all the great
things that still make this country a great place.
As a classical music lover, I
take it upon myself to elevate and pay homage to South African greats in this
genre of music. There are many others like MM Moerane, JSP Motuba, JP
Mohapeloa, Podu Mamabolo, TL Tsambo. The list is long and their work and
contribution to our society is immeasurable. At this time, Prof. Khumalo stands
out because of what he was able to do with something that represents some of
the violent times in the history of our country. The rule of King Shaka as
documented by European historians, was not always a great one, especially for
his subjects. However, in the music of Prof. Khumalo about The Zulu King, one
is able to find a sense of pride. The lessons on heritage and a sense of
belonging are also key factors that embody the creativity in which this history
is documented. Thank you Mntungwa and we give thanks to God and to your
ancestors; Nin' enadl'umuntu nimyenga ngendaba. Mantungwa aluhlaza!
It was through Prof. Mzilikazi
Khumalo that I got to know some of the great singers in South Africa. The
people till this day, I still associate with choral music. Sibongile Khumalo,
Sibongile Mngoma, Themba Mkhwane. I learned that loving classical music was not
weird or unusual. Prof. Khumalo was the window to the outside world. A world
with people like me who love this craft. Growing up in a Lutheran home with parents
and siblings active in church, choral music became my main reason to stay safe
in church. It was the only place where I could live my passion. The passion
inspired by the Salvation Army choir Prof. Khumalo conducted on TV every Sunday
evening. As I grew up to be more independent, I never missed the Annual Mass
Choir Festival at the Standard Bank Arena. Prof. Khumalo, Richard Cock and
Danny Pooe were conductors of the mass choir. It was also my first experience
listening to a live orchestra. A feeling that I still cannot explain up to
today.
I could write a whole book about
my love for music and the legends of choral music in this country of ours.
Khabi Mngoma and George Mxadana are among those who kept the candle burning
even when strong winds blew their way. Black excellence during their time was
unimaginable. Few mastered it. Prof. Mzilikazi Khumalo forms a great part of
the foundation of my passion for music. May he be blessed with comfort, good
health and a legacy that lives on for generations.
Photo Credit: AfriClassic
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