Nobuntu with Academy Voices

‘Choral music has the power to not only bring people together but possesses the strength to integrate cultures and nations. Cultural Connect aims to foster a profound sense of community, mutual understanding and artistic growth.’

– Timothy Wayne-Wright, Director of the A Cappella Academy

In this unique choral cultural exchange, we welcome Nobuntu as Ensemble-in-Residence; a vocal quartet who embody a new wave of female African artists dedicated to sharing their heritage and traditions through the universal language of music.

This residency opens a musical dialogue between Nobuntu and Academy Voices, a brand-new ensemble directed by Jonathan Bligh. This group of twelve singers is formed from members of four outstanding A Cappella Academy choirs – Adelaide Chamber Singers, Aurora Vocal Ensemble, Festival Statesmen Chorus and Rising Voices. Through intensive workshops and rehearsals, Nobuntu will share traditional music from Zimbabwe, passing on African harmonies, rhythms and unique vocal techniques to Academy Voices, who will reciprocate and explore the Australian cultural matrix.

As part of the exchange, we are delighted to commission two of the leading choral figures in Australia today, Anne Cawrse and Carl Crossin, to create new work for this distinctive combination of voices. 

Zanele Manhenga 
Vocals

Thandeka Moyo 
Vocals

Duduzile Sibanda 
Vocals

Joyline Sibanda 
Vocals 

Academy Voices
Directed by Jonathan Bligh