Afropean Choir: Oxfringe 2010: Wesley Memorial Church (From The Oxford Times)

Afropean Choir: Oxfringe 2010: Wesley Memorial Church

2:06pm Wednesday 7th April 2010 in

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You have to be more than a singer to join the Afropean Choir – you also need to dance and act, too, as this adventurous and inspiring ensemble proved last week. Formed just three years ago, by singer, composer and arranger Anita Daulne, this choir offers something different from other choirs; a vibrant, exciting approach to performance that sees them dancing, swaying and singing to a variety of songs from different African countries.

The first time I saw this choir was at the Ashmolean Museum two years ago, and I was impressed then. I was even more so this time; the singers have well and truly found their feet, and established the kind of strong musical and emotional rapport that only comes from a group with a deep sense of commitment.

Last week’s performance, presented as part of Oxfringe 2010, was an exploration of the different rhythms, harmonies and polyphonies of Africa, through new and traditional songs from the Congo, South Africa, Morocco and other African countries, variously reflecting the emotions of love, loss, celebration and hope. A mixture of the urban and the ethnic, the programme took the audience on a journey through the desert, through townships and through rainforests.

As I noted before, the choir’s voices blend seamlessly, their timing and intonation are flawless, and they constantly impress with their confident handling of different languages and rhythms, while showing what a versatile instrument the voice is. Above all, the sound is consistently beautiful, awe-inspiring and atmospheric, and the singers perform with such joy, spirit and vitality that it is impossible to resist being caught up in their energy and enthusiasm. This was a slick, polished and obviously well-rehearsed performance, and it was wonderful to see the event being so well supported.

For more information about the Afropean Choir, visit www.afropeanchoir.co.uk. For details of remaining Oxfringe 2010 events, visit www.oxfringe.com/tickets.