Drakensberg Boys Choir brings the Amaculo
Drakie Sunshine Tour to Mpumalanga
Songs of Heritage, Hope and Harmony to resonate across Mpumalanga from July 6 to 11, 2026
Communities across Mpumalanga will have the opportunity to experience the extraordinary talent, energy and musical excellence of one of South Africa’s most celebrated cultural institutions when the internationally-acclaimed Drakensberg Boys Choir embarks on its Amaculo Drakie Sunshine Tour Mpumalanga from July 6 to 11, 2026.
Presented under the theme, Songs of Heritage, Hope and Harmony, the tour will bring the Choir’s unique blend of world-class choral music, African rhythms, contemporary works and inspirational storytelling to audiences in Middelburg, Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit), Komatipoort and Ermelo.
For almost six decades, the Drakensberg Boys Choir has captivated audiences across the globe, earning a reputation as one of South Africa’s foremost cultural ambassadors. From prestigious international stages to communities across the country, the Choir continues to showcase the transformative power of music while developing young leaders, musicians and global citizens.
The Amaculo Drakie Sunshine Tour reflects the Choir’s enduring commitment to building community connections through music and bringing people together through shared cultural experiences.
In many parts of Mpumalanga, especially among siSwati-speaking communities, the word Amaculo is commonly associated with cultural singing, praise songs, and church hymns. If used in the context of a cultural event in Mpumalanga, the intended meaning is usually something along the lines of “Songs,” “Melodies,” “Voices,” or a celebration of musical and cultural heritage.
Hendrik Bekker, Executive Head of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School, says: “The Drakensberg Boys Choir School is about far more than musical excellence alone. Every day we seek to develop young men of character, resilience and purpose. Music provides a powerful vehicle for growth, leadership and service. This tour gives our boys the opportunity to share those values while inspiring communities across Mpumalanga. We believe music has the power to connect people, build hope and create meaningful impact wherever it is performed.”
Renowned for its exceptional musical versatility, the Choir will present a vibrant programme featuring Western Art music, contemporary choral and secular repertoire, popular music and indigenous South African works. Audiences can expect a dynamic performance that moves seamlessly between genres, cultures and traditions while celebrating South Africa’s rich musical heritage.
According to Jacques Linde, Head of Choral Activity and Conductor, the tour represents an opportunity to showcase not only the Choir’s musical excellence but also its role as a cultural ambassador for South Africa.
“Wherever the Drakensberg Boys Choir performs, we carry a uniquely South African story with us,” says Linde. “Our boys become ambassadors for our country through music, sharing a message of unity, excellence and cultural understanding. The repertoire on this tour reflects who we are as South Africans while also celebrating the universal language of music that transcends boundaries and brings people together.”
A special highlight of the tour will be the Mbombela performance on July 7 at Laerskool Laeveld, where the Choir will collaborate with the Laerskool Laeveld Senior Choir, Nocoré Ensemble and acclaimed soprano Kirsten Blair. This unique performance promises an inspiring celebration of local and national musical talent.
The tour follows a period of significant activity for the Choir, including its acclaimed Music in the City 2026 concert series in Johannesburg from June 17 to 20, 2026, and forms part of the institution’s ongoing mission to share musical excellence with audiences throughout South Africa.
For more information, visit https://dbchoir.com/