Yellowwood Primary choir take show on the road

THE Yellowwood Primary School Choir in Mitchells Plain are going on the road to perform their new song ‘Mitchells Plain, why are you shooting our kids?”

The skoolkoortjiie has been a beacon of hope, joy, and unity in the heart of Mitchells Plain under the passionate leadership of Chesray Sauls, who has served as the choir conductor for the past nine years.

The school made headlines a few weeks ago when a Grade R teacher at the school had to calm learners as bullets rang out by lying flat on the group while listening to calming melodies.

And as the school pushes to raise funds for their trip to perform in Bredasdorp at the end of November, their song is more poignant than ever.

Sauls said despite the challenges his singers face daily, they show remarkable resilience and commitment, attending rehearsals after school and even on weekends.

He told the Daily Voice: “There is gang violence happening every day but the learners are still committed walking through the violence and gunshot and their parents dropping them for rehearsals.

“I am still with the full capacity of learners because the choir is a safe space for them and there is a love amongst one another. We are not just a choir but a family.”

The learners are from Grade 3 to Grade 7 and over the years, the choir has proudly represented the school at several prestigious events, including The Tygerberg International Eisteddfod, Artscape School Arts Festival, the Mitchells Plain Choir Competition, the vibrant Cape Town Carnival and various community outreach programs.

With the koortjie planning for their trip to the Overberg, the school is seeking to raise R50 000.

Sauls added: “In the past three years, we have made it our mission to raise funds and take the choir outside of Cape Town, offering our children the opportunity to explore new cities, perform in different communities, and collaborate with other schools and organisations.

“These trips are not vacations, they are purpose-driven outreaches and concerts where our learners continue to serve and inspire through music.“

"We believe in the power of music to transform lives. We have parents who volunteer their time to assist with the choir without any pay."

If anyone would like to donate please contact 061 914 9165.