Harry Gwala Secondary School shines at national choral competition

Harry Gwala Secondary School shines at national choral competition

10 July 2025

The hard work and dedication of Harry Gwala Secondary School's choir paid off when they won three prestigious trophies at the 2025 South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod. This national competition, organised by the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, in partnership with the Motsepe Foundation, showcases the singing talents of learners across various categories.

The Khayelitsha school's quartette, led by Mr Mhlalisi Mungeka, secured silver in the small ensemble category. But the real showstopper was Yongama Takane, a Grade 11 learner who stole the audience's hearts with her breathtaking performance of "Tornami a vagheggiar," an aria from George Frideric Handel's opera Alcina. Yongama's talent earned her first place in the soprano solo category and the title of best soloist of the competition.

Yongama credited their success to the choir's tireless efforts and the guidance of Mr Mungeka. "He's a demanding teacher, but we appreciate the lessons he teaches us. It makes us better musicians and young people," she said.

Paarl School, another Western Cape school, also shone at the competition, achieving bronze in the Special Schools division.