New Soweto Gospel Choir Series from Kurt Runestad and MusicSpoke

MusicSpoke and arranger Kurt Runestad are thrilled to announce the Soweto Gospel Choir Choral Series, featuring transcriptions by the famed South African gospel choir that won its third Grammy Award this past year.

“Khumbaya” was performed at the opening concert of the ACDA National Convention in Kansas City this past year, and now five more transcriptions are available: “Balm of Gilead,” “Ke Na Le Modisa,” “Shosholoza,” “Somlandela,” and “Swing Down.”

Since Soweto Gospel Choir is based entirely on aural and oral traditions, these transcriptions now allow conductors to program the group’s infectious, joyful music. Runestad has been to South Africa and worked with SGC in a clinic, and transcribed and arranged the pieces in close association with the group’s leadership, consulting closely on language authenticity. Each arrangement includes a djembe part and also has the improvisatory-style solos written out for ease of performance. Conductors can view perusal scores online at MusicSpoke: www.musicspoke.com, and hear Soweto Gospel Choir performances on YouTube.

You can explore each transcription at the links below!

Khumbaya — the classic spiritual arranged by Soweto Gospel Choir in an accessible style that allows for great solo features.

Balm of Gilead—a new take on a classic spiritual. The tune is transformed into an unmistakably South African groove.

Ke Na Le Modisa—Soweto Gosepl Choir’s setting of Psalm 23 with a “Sotho interpretation” of the classic text with translations like, “Enemies can hate me, but I can still eat.”

Shosholoza—a miner’s work song that became associated with celebration and unity when Nelson Mandela was released from prison. It is considered the countries “second” national anthem.

Somlandela—an original arrangement by the Soweto Gospel Choir marked by the distinct South African style and moving religious sincerity.

Swing Down—a fun, energetic setting of the classic spiritual with a feature for the bass section.