“Music that speaks to the heart – accessible, moving and deeply human.”
This is what choral music enthusiasts can expect, according to acclaimed choir conductor André van der Merwe, when 65 choristers from the Voces Cordis Choir take to the stage at Klein Karoo Klassique for the first time on Sunday 10 August at 12:30.
A Rich and Diverse Musical Journey
Their programme offers a musical journey that captures the essence of the choir – both as individuals and as a collective voice – with a diverse selection ranging from a traditional Kavango prayer and Laura Jēkabsone’s energetic Gloria, to the soulful harmonies of Brent Wells’ It Is Well With My Soul, Jacob Collier’s Little Blue, and the beloved Afrikaans piece Voshaarnooi.
The choir’s name, Voces Cordis, meaning “Voices of the Heart”, reflects its spirit. Van der Merwe explains that the repertoire was chosen to mirror the choir’s diversity – a rich blend of personalities, backgrounds, and life experiences. “Our members are adults navigating full lives: balancing careers, family commitments, school runs, businesses, and somehow still finding the time to rehearse and memorise complex music,” he says.
“As adults, our choristers connect with the music on a personal level, bringing a sense of depth and understanding to every piece we sing. This will be our first time performing in Oudtshoorn as a choir, and we’re excited to share a programme that reflects both our diversity and our unity. Above all, we are committed to delivering a sincere and heartfelt performance that leaves a lasting impression.”
Van der Merwe adds that the choir is eager and excited to share their music with a wider audience than they are used to, and to connect with the people of Oudtshoorn through the choir’s greatest passion.
Bringing Life Experience to Every Note
“As an adult choir, our time together is often limited to rehearsals or performances – it is not easy to find more time in our busy lives. That is why being part of Klein Karoo Klassique is so special. It gives us the rare opportunity to spend meaningful time together and to share that joy with others.
“Klein Karoo Klassique not only unites the town of Oudtshoorn but also creates a vibrant platform for classical music to be expressed in many forms – whether through voice, piano, organ, or strings. It celebrates the richness and diversity of the genre in a way that’s both accessible and inspiring. We’re honoured to be part of this long-standing celebration of classical music in its sixteenth year.”
“Many of our singers have known each other – and me – since their teenage years. They come with deep musical roots, having sung in world-class children’s choirs and competed internationally from a young age. This shared history, combined with the depth that comes from lived experience, brings a special maturity and emotional nuance to our music-making,” he says.
A Conductor’s Passion for Choral Connection
Van der Merwe is also the Musical Director of the Stellenbosch University Choir (since 2003) and has just returned from the Interkultur European Choir Games and Grand Prix of Nations 2025 competition in Aarhus, Denmark, where they won three gold medals.
He describes working with choral music as incredibly rewarding, because it allows him to witness how music touches everyone involved – from the audience and the singers to the composer and lyricist. “Each person experiences a piece differently, and as a conductor, I get a front-row seat to that emotional connection. Choral music is truly a team effort – every voice, every part plays a unique and essential role in bringing the music to life. It’s a powerful reminder of how individual contributions come together to create something far greater than the sum of its parts.”
The idea for Voces Cordis was born when Van der Merwe was a patient of one of his former choristers. “During each visit, the topic of starting an adult choir kept coming up, until the idea finally took root. From the very first auditions, it was clear that this choir would be something special. Many of those who came to audition were familiar faces – former members of Pro Cantu Youth Choir, Stellenberg Girls’ Choir, and the Stellenbosch University Choir. It felt like a natural reunion of voices who had journeyed together before, now ready to create something new. This alone inspires our team,” he concludes.
Join the Celebration at Klein Karoo Klassique
A limited number of Klassique Packages are available, offering access to all nine recitals at a discount of over 20%. Tickets can be purchased online or from the KKNK office. Remaining tickets will also be on sale at the door before each recital.
Klein Karoo Klassique is presented by the KKNK, made possible by the Rupert Music Foundation and the ATKV, with support from Le Lude and the Oudtshoorn Municipality.
Accommodation sponsors for this winter festival include Aloe Manor, Argyll B&B, Bakenskraal Ostrich Palace, Beit Shalom Guesthouse, Hlangana Lodge, Kleinplaas Holiday Resort, Mooiplaas Guest House, Queen’s Hotel, Ravenscliff Manor and Rosenhof Country House.
For more information, visit www.klassique.co.za or contact the KKNK office via email at [email protected], by phone at 044 203 8600, or send a WhatsApp to 065 285 2337.
