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The pieces performed include many from the traditional male voice choir repertoire, and being South African, we have included a traditional Zulu anthem, Ukuthula, in a contemporary arrangement, calling for peace, redemption and comfort. “Africa South”, arranged by Cape Town composer Grant McLachlan blends extracts and arrangements of other well -loved African songs. Opening with a section of the South African National Anthem, Nkosi sikele iAfrika, the work moves into the beautiful Plea for Africa, praying for blessing on Africa and its peoples. This is followed by a new arrangement of Shosholoza which leads into an African thunder and rainstorm. As the raindrops die away, the 1980’s Bright Blue protest song Weeping rises, telling of the pain, struggles and hope of the oppressed people of Africa. Nkosi sikelel ’iAfrika softly emerges from the weeping and carries the piece through to an affirmative ending – Mayibuye iAfrika! (Africa Arise!).