There was a different kind of rainbow at Music in the Park this past Sunday, as the Valley in Berea came alive with colour, sound, and spirited celebration.
Beneath clear, sunny skies, audiences were treated to a showcase of youthful talent, artistic excellence, and an unforgettable sense of community.
From the outset, each performance captivated the crowd, but it was a spontaneous flash mob to the beloved South African hit “Jerusalema” by Gramny Award winner, Nomcebo that truly stole the show.
As the familiar rhythm filled the air, pupils from various schools streamed onto the field in an impromptu dance, their energy infectious.
The Selborne Military Band embraced the moment, welcoming fellow performers into a joyful, unified expression of music and movement.
Band director Winston Paxton, who has led school bands for over 36 years, reflected on the moment with pride, noting how music had the power to unite young people across the city in a shared celebration.
This annual event, now a cherished tradition, traces its roots back to 2003. The initiative was the brainchild of Jane Potgieter, inspired by her visit to the Leeds Tattoo in the UK in 2001.
Moved by the experience, she envisioned bringing similar musical joy – particularly Scottish pipe bands to elderly residents who might otherwise feel isolated.
With the support of her late husband Brian, a member of Arcadia Rotary, and a network of dedicated volunteers, the first Music in the Park was launched to resounding success.
More than two decades later, the event continues to thrive.
One of the highlights of this year’s programme was the stirring entrance of the Caledonian Pipe Band, who emerged from various points across the grounds, converging on the field as they performed “Amazing Grace” followed by traditional Scottish tunes.
The Clarendon Chamber Choir was the first vocal ensemble to take the stage, resplendent in green satin skirts and black blouses. Under the direction of Michelle Wiseman, the choir has built a reputation for excellence.
“Excellence breeds excellence,” Wiseman told the Go!
“We keep our chamber choir at twenty members, allowing them to grow and mature together over time.”
Clarendon recently hosted Ignite under the Choral Celebration Network Foundation, and the choir is now preparing to compete at the prestigious Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival, which is being hosted in South Africa this year.
Wiseman expressed confidence in her team and highlighted the leadership of pupil Avuzwa Mdudo, whose skill and initiative have made her an invaluable asset to the choir.
Lilyfontein School’s marimba band and choir also delivered a standout performance. Directed by Kimaine Carr, who has been with the school for six years, the group demonstrated both technical precision and a unique collaborative spirit.
“The band was already established,” Carr said. “but the choir I built from scratch.”
Lilyfontein’s adventure-based approach to education – incorporating activities like hiking, kayaking, and environmental stewardship, translates into a dynamic musical culture where pupils develop rhythm and teamwork from an early age.
Together with junior music teacher Qhawekazi Giyose, whose background includes a master’s degree in Jazz and Ethnomusicology and international teaching experience in Vietnam, the programme has flourished.
Carr likened the group’s performance style to a flock of geese.
“Each one takes the lead when needed, and they support each other throughout,” said Carr.
The result was a seamless, self-directed performance marked by rich harmonies and tight synchronisation.
Equally inspiring was the journey of St Joseph’s Choir under the leadership of Phumeza Peteni.
A teacher of Maths, Science, Economics, and isiXhosa, Peteni has long harboured a passion for choral music.
Her dream began in 2003 when she first encountered Music in the Park while assisting at another school.
Two decades later, that dream has come full circle.
“When I was asked what else I could offer the school, I immediately said ‘a choir’,” she recalled.
The early days were challenging, with limited interest from pupils.
“At one point, I had just one boy attending rehearsals,” she said.
But she said persistence paid off. In recent weeks, more pupils especially boys have joined, bringing renewed energy and enthusiasm.
As the choir performed the moving hymn “Umoy’ ongcwele wehla”, audience members joined in, creating a powerful moment of shared worship and connection.
The MC for the day, Richard Jardin, encouraged further participation, and soon the crowd was swaying together in song.
Behind the scenes, the success of the event was supported by long-time partners like Lee Gold, whose sound engineering services have been donated since the event’s inception.
Manager Evan Pelser continues this tradition in honour of local educators and the charitable work of Rotary in East London.
Funds raised from the event will go towards supporting residents of Berea Gardens who are struggling to make ends meet on their SASSA grants.
Potgieter expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed, including the management of The Valley and the many volunteers who make the event possible each year.
“Music in the Park is not just about entertainment,” Potgieter said.
“It’s about bringing people together, uplifting spirits, and making a difference.”
For those who wish to contribute, donations can be made by contacting Berea Gardens at bereagardens@berea-gardens.co.za
