A Cape Town choir is demonstrating how music can break down barriers and heal old wounds as South Africa observes Human Rights Month.
The Rosa choir, which brings together singers from across the city’s divided communities, shows what can happen when people from different backgrounds come together in harmony.
Breaking down barriers through song
Started in 2012, the choir has members who travel from across Cape Town to practice together. Some journey for hours using public transport, while others live nearby. Getting to rehearsals can be challenging, with some singers having to meet at police stations for safe transport due to crime in their areas.
Despite these obstacles, once the music begins, the healing power of singing takes over.
IN OTHER NEWS: Cape Town Carnival 2026: Follow Your heART in the Mother City this weekend
“Singing together and sharing the joy of singing helps to break down these barriers, and promotes cohesion,” said Kay Jaffer, one of the choir’s founding members from Wynberg. “The arts, and especially music and singing, are powerful tools to do this.”
The choir performs songs in isiXhosa, English and Afrikaans, including traditional pieces like Suikerbossie and Asimbonanga, alongside popular songs such as My African Dream and Stand by Me.
Young voices find purpose
Bass singer Aphiwe Magodla, 21, from Gugulethu, has been with the choir for two years. He says being part of Rosa choir has improved his wellbeing.
“Being in the choir contributes a sense of purpose and balance to my life,” he said. “It gives me a space where I can express myself freely, connect with others and be fully present in the moment.”
Growing the choir community
The choir gets its name from the popular Cape-Malay Dutch song Rosa, often sung at Cape weddings and social gatherings. The song brings back feelings of pride, community and home for many Capetonians.
Members include gospel singers, young activists, casual workers, professionals and experienced Malay choir performers. Like many arts groups, the choir had to stop during Covid-19 and is now rebuilding, aiming to reach 40 singers this year.
The choir has appointed a new musical director and will restart Saturday practices at the Artscape theatre in April. They plan to record a professional video in May.
As part of the Cape Cultural Collective, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2027, Rosa choir represents the group’s mission of including everyone in the arts.
Open to new members
The choir welcomes anyone over 14 who loves singing and wants to make new friends. They particularly need more men and singers aged 18 to 34.
“I want our audience to enjoy the music and see what is possible when people from different backgrounds and experiences come together in a spirit of unified harmony,” Jaffer said.
The choir’s unity reflects the values in South Africa’s Constitution, which protects human dignity, equality and freedom for all people.
For more information about Rosa choir, contact Kay Jaffer on 082 202 3131 or email the Cape Cultural Collective at capeculturalcollective@gmail.com
