DRAKENSBERG BOYS' CHOIR

World-renowned choir to perform at Hilton College Theatre on March 6 and 7.

The world-renowned Drakensberg Boys Choir is to give two performances at the Hilton College theatre. A firm favourite on the theatre's calendar, the choir will perform under the choral direction of the school's new conductor Johann van der Sandt.

Born in the Free State, Johann van der Sandt completed his studies at the University of Pretoria where he also received a Diploma for Individual Music Tuition in piano, organ, vocal training and the clarinet. In January 1996, the Instituut voor dirigente Edukatie in Gorinchem, the Netherlands, conferred a Performance Diploma in Choir Conducting on him.

Johann is actively involved in the training and development of conductors. His doctoral thesis was based on developing a curriculum for the training of undergraduate students in choral conducting. He has trained under acclaimed Swedish choirmaster, Eric Ericson and is also well-known for his choral arrangements performed by national and international choirs.

Johann won the Best Conductor at the 46th CA Seghizzi International Choral Competition in Gorizia, Italy in 2007. He lectured at the University of Pretoria and conducted their Camerate for 10 years before accepting the post as Director of Music at The Drakensburg Boys Choir in July, 2008.

The Drakensberg Boys Choir performances take place on March 6 at 19h30 and on March 7 at 14h30. Tickets R80 booked through the Hilton College Theatre on 033 383 0126.