Chorale de Kigali, Rwanda’s most renowned Catholic choir, is set to headline the Voices in Harmony concert on World Music Day, June 21, at Kigali Universe. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Well known for their annual Christmas Carols performance, the choir says this new midyear concert stems from their discovery and embrace of World Music Day, a global celebration of music held every June 21. ALSO READ: Aimé Uwimana, Ben & Chance to grace Bosco Nshuti’s 'Unconditional Love' concert Valentin Bigango, a leader in the choir, told The New Times that Voices in Harmony was inspired by both the significance of the international day and a desire to meet the growing appetite of their audience. “Preparing in the middle of the year comes from celebrating International Music Day,” he said. “But it also relates to our observation that the Christmas Carols concert alone wasn't sufficient for our music-loving audience. So, in preparing this concert, we're killing two birds with one stone—celebrating International Music Day while giving our fans another concert beyond Christmas.” ALSO READ: Rumaga on performing with Mariya Yohana: ‘Three generations united for liberation through music’ With just days to go, the group is deep in rehearsal. “The preparations are intensive right now, and singers are doing their final rehearsals,” Bigango said. “Fans can expect a concert that is truly on another level. The repertoire will take them through different musical eras that have shaped world music.” Founded in 1966 by 20 members, most of whom were seminary-trained musicians, Chorale de Kigali is considered the country’s oldest Catholic choir. Among its founding members were Claver Karangwa, Leon Mbarushimana, Callixte Kalisa, Paulin Muswahili, and Saulve Iyamuremye. Today, the choir includes more than 150 members, with 60 percent of them being young people. Their unique sound has earned them opportunities to perform at major concerts, take part in religious festivals, and contribute original compositions to various liturgical and cultural music bodies. Tickets are available via *797*50*2*65#. Prices are Rwf 20,000 for regular admission, Rwf 40,000 for VIP, and Rwf 300,000 for a table of six.
