Remembering Mandela
Nelson Mandela was a man who put his words and thoughts into action. His story and impact on the world in the area of racism will never be forgotten. As I follow the news, read on-line testimonials and banter with colleagues, my respect for this man continues to grow.
I remember the day Mandela was released from prison in 1990, and the almost immediate awareness of African songs of freedom and protest.I recall listening to Fjedur, a Swedish choir, that made a recording of South African protest songs during the apartheid period. As a soon to be music educator, I immersed myself in the possibility of teaching my choirs some of these great songs!
When I entered Rockway in the fall of 1992, I taught my first Grade 10 Choir, “Halleluyah, Pelo Tsa Rona,” and had little trouble motivating my students to sing this anthem from South Africa.In the 21 years that followed, I continued to teach at least one African song/year to each of my ensembles. I have fond memories of these lessons and the performances of these choirs. There is no better way to inspire youth, than to teach songs of freedom and protest. The repetitiveness of the text, the simplicity of the tune and some good hearty movement consistently generated enthusiasm and a love for singing!
I leave you with the words of one of my favorite South African songs, “Oh Freedom” which is no doubt being sung in the cities, villages and streets of South Africa this week. I encourage you to listen to it online, as a way to honor and reflect upon a man who changed the face of South Africa and the world!
Oh freedom, oh freedom, oh freedom,
freedom is coming, oh yes of freedom!
Yes I know!
Oh Jesus, oh Jesus, oh Jesus,
Jesus is coming, yes, I know!
Ann L. Schultz
Tags: C3, contentment, discover rockway, faith, Family Breakfast, Gratitude, Homecoming Weekend, peace, prayer
