By infusing the timeless classic of Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma” with the spirit of Africa and a blend of isiZulu lyrics, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has created a truly magical and unforgettable performance.
South Africa (03 October 2024) – Whether gospel-inspired or upbeat, the Ndlovu Youth Choir is renowned for creating music that really makes you stop and listen, making it difficult not to marvel at their melodic voices singing in perfect harmony together.
Pushing the boundaries of their artistry, the choir recently reimagined an Italian opera masterpiece of Puccini’s Nessun Dorma as a dream-like African fantasy, blending timeless elegance with the vocal cappella traditions of South Africa.
Performed in isiZulu, this re-imagination of a timeless classic blends the spirit of Africa with the grandeur of opera.
It is so magical, Good Things Guy just had to get in touch with the choir’s Artistic Director Ralf Schmitt who shared that the choir was keen to try something radically different.
“I decided to take on the opera classic Nessun Dorma by Giacomo Puccini from the opera Turandot. Pavarotti made this aria famous, and I thought it would be a cool challenge to try and add our own unique interpretation to this masterpiece.”
Schmitt admits that the Nessun Dorma project was challenging as it was important to remain incredibly respectful to the original composer and to the traditions of the indigenous South African genre that they always aim to infuse into their arrangements.
The choir is currently in the Netherlands where they will be performing seven performances at the AFAS Theatre following an impressive run of six performances at the local Montecasino Teatro.
“Rearranging the song was complex but a fun challenge nonetheless. I arranged the music, and three of the choristers translated the text.
“The song has been a tremendous success at our live performances, receiving a rousing standing ovation 100% of the time. We can’t wait to take it to Carnegie Hall at the end of the month,” Schmitt shares excitedly.
You can watch the goosebump-inducing rendition below.
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