African Dawn is a short set of songs dealing with typical early morning activities as seen through the eyes of a child (such as waking up reluctantly, washing with enthusiasm and wishing everyone a good morning). It is African music for non-african children set in such a way that they can relate to it. It was commissioned by the Jakaranda Kinderkoor from Pretoria under the direction of Riekie van Aswegen. The version in this set is for mixed choir. May the children's of all ages singing these songs, create the harmony for which we all are yearning.
Afrika Mosegare - African Noon
African Noon was composed for the Rand Afrikaans University Choir (Johannesburg), under the direction of Reinette Bouwer. The choir performed the work as part of their 2001 concert programme in South Africa and abroad. The work depicts a typical hot day in Africa: sun blazing, sun-beetles piercing the dry air with their incessant shrill song and glimmers of heat rising from the earth. Nature seems unkind, burning people walking bare-foot and with holding life-giving rain. The focal movement is a somewhat exasperated plea for water.
Tshwahlana ya Afrika - African Dusk
African Dusk has as focal point some african musical activities that might take place in a typical, traditional, african village. The first song, a working song, is sung by the young girls on their way to the river to fetch water for the evening. Hand percussion accompanies the singing which creates the effect of walking through long grass, while frog-sounds are heard from the river. The second song is a traditional SePedi lullaby, sung to soothe a child. The moon rises slowly, and finally appears in its full african glory. Around the fire a leisurely conversation gives way to a song that recalls the people's true identity: People of Africa. The final song and dance sequence contains the african belief that death must be confronted with the rhythm and music of life. It is the composer's hope and belief this music will inspire the children of Africa to cherish their rich, diverse heritage. African Dusk was especially written for the East Rand Youth Choir (1994) under the direction of Johann van der Sandt.
Diese Ausgabe enthält folgende Titel: 65471 (African Dawn - Mahube Afrika) 65481 (African Noon - Afrika Mosegare) 65491 (African Dusk - Tshwahlane ya Afrika)
Revisionsbericht: 2007-09-30: Titel geändert von „An African Reflection“ in „An African Day“
