Berea, Aug. 28 — Choral music plays an important role in instilling discipline and responsibility among young people, renowned Berea conductor Mr. Samuel Motšoeli has said.
Speaking to the Agency on Friday, Mr. Motšoeli said participation in choirs helps shape children’s behaviour while developing concentration and active listening skills.
He said singing requires proper breathing, which makes it important for young singers to avoid alcohol and cigarette use as these can affect their performance.
Mr. Motšoeli said choral music also helps develop active listening skills because singers are required to concentrate during rehearsals and competitions.
As conductors prepare school choirs for the inter-district music competitions scheduled for September 2 to 5 in Mohale’s Hoek, he urged them to prioritise the wellbeing of participating children.
He said conductors should ensure that children remain healthy and are not exposed to activities or substances that could affect their performance.
Mr. Motšoeli also urged conductors to remind children about the expected behaviour and discipline when participating in competitions.
He cautioned teachers against consuming alcohol during the competitions, saying this could expose children to inappropriate behaviour.
He said teachers should remember that they are role models and should therefore conduct themselves responsibly throughout the competitions.
The inter-district music competitions will be held in Mohale’s Hoek from September 2 to 5, with several schools from Berea expected to participate.
Motšoeli has conducted several choirs, including Maria Mabasotho Youth Choir, Maseru Vocal Waves, The Highlands Choral, Berea Marvellous Voices, Mapoteng Choral Society and Assumption Youth Choir and Cenez High School to name a fewiHig .
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