08 Jul 2024

The Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport, and Culture has increased prizes for the top four winners in each category of the National Arts Competitions.

Revealing the details during the Choral and Clap and Tap grand finale in Mogoditshane recently, Minister Tumiso Rakgare said first place winners would now receive an impressive P50 000, a significant increase from the previous P30 000. 

The runner-up prize has also been elevated to P42 000, with P38 000 and P33 000 awarded to the third and fourth positions, respectively.

Rakgare also noted inclusion of Clap and Tap category in the competitions. “I am thrilled to announce that Clap and Tap has finally found its rightful place in our national arts showcase. We realised that without this vital component, our competitions will not be complete,” he said adding that the vibrant rhythm of this art form has been an integral part of the country’s cultural tapestry for generations.

With the excitement surrounding the new Clap and Tap category, the competition was heated, and Ebenezer Gospel Choir from Serowe emerged the champions, closely followed by Kobamelo Choir from Ghanzi in second place while Salvation Choir from Maun came third, and Soul Redeemers from Gaborone emerged in fourth position.

The vibrant competition saw each choir showcase their unique style, with the passionate performances captivating the audience and judges alike. Choirs in the Clap and Tap category were given freedom to showcase their unique style, presenting songs of their own choice rather than adhering to a standard tune.

The Choral category, split into two sections – Standard (30-48 choristers) and Large (49-60 choristers) – saw four choirs compete in the Standard section. The competing choirs were tasked with performing two songs: Botaki le Bodiragatsi, a composition by David Segatlhe, and a Lerabi song, both of which tested their musical skills and cultural understanding.

After a spellbinding display of musical talent and cultural understanding, Palapye Voices emerged as the victors of the Standard Choral category, scoring an impressive 158 points. They were closely followed by CreativeArts Chorus from Gaborone with 157 points in second place, Maun Choral Choir securing 152 points for third place, and Camel Choir from Tsabong garnering 144 points to take fourth place.

The standard section of the Choral category proved to be a fierce competition, with every point hard-fought and the placing separated by narrowest of margins. The Large section Choral category was a captivating display of skill and showmanship, with nine choirs squaring off against each other to prove their musical prowess. The competitors were presented with two formidable song choices that demanded not only technical precision but also a deep understanding of vastly different musical traditions.

First up was Nie Weird Ich Deine, a classical opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, presenting a complex musical puzzle that tested the choirs’ choral prowess and discipline.

Following this, the choirs were then tasked with delivering a stirring rendition of Thari ya Sechaba, a traditional Botswana song composed by Tlokweng native Boatametse Bolokwe. The complex rhythms and intricate harmonies of this piece pushed the choirs to their limits, requiring a masterful blend of power and finesse.

In a gripping contest of musical skill and determination, Andante Chorus from Ramotswa triumphed in the Large Choral category with an astonishing 169 points, securing their second consecutive victory in the competition. Maikano Serenaders from Gaborone were hot on their heels in second place with 159 points.

Gaborone Philharmonic Voices, representing the capital city, managed to secure a commendable third position with 155 points, while the talented KTM Choir came in a close fourth with 154 points.

Remarking on the competitions, Deputy Permanent Secretary Library, Archives, Arts and Culture Tebogo Matebesi expounded on the deeper significance of the National Arts Competitions, highlighting its role in uniting the country.

“The festival is not merely a competition but a celebration of the power of music to transcend barriers and unite us as one community and one nation. It is a testament to the joy and connections that music can foster,” he proclaimed. 

 The National Arts Competitions award ceremony will be held in Gaborone on July 15. Ends