03 Jul 2017

Ever since the introduction of the President’s Day competitions back in 2008 by President Lt Gen. Dr Seretse Khama Ian Khama, the level of quality and professionalism exhibited by artists has improved to a point of admiration.

The creative arts industry has really seen a transformation for the better and this was evidenced by the multitudes of choral music fans that thronged SSKB for a night of melody as choral teams slugged it out in this year’s final.

From the attire of the competing choirs to the dedication and poise of the competitors, one could not help but see the tremendous difference the competitions have made in the lives of those taking part.

For this, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development deserves an applause for its continued support and growth of the creative arts.

With the theme of this year "Creative Industries, A Vehicle for Sustainable Development," the creative arts industry has been touted as the future of job creation and economic diversification and that is what it has been doing since 2008.

Meanwhile, Lesedi Choral from Molepolole walked away with 1st prize under the choral music section, and having entered the standard category they scooped first prize in both African piece and Lerabi.

Under the African piece, they contested with a song composed by Lucky Batlanang titled, Motse wa Setswana.

Second place went to Palapye Voices, followed by Camel Choir from Tsabong in third and Maun Choral came in fourth.

In the large category, Andante Chorus were crowned overall winners, seconded by Gaborone Youth Singers, Serowe Symphony came in third and fourth position went to Maikano Serenaders.

All the choirs in the large category contested with a song composed by Luka Disho titled Kwa Tshimong.

First prize winners took home P35 000, while second prize winners won P30 000, third P25 000 and fourth position went home P20 000 richer. ENDS