South African gospel choir to undertake 30-city tour of the UK.

THE INTERNATIONALLY renowned Soweta Gospel Choir will headline the 2004 Edinburgh Festival before taking in a major 30-city tour of the UK including London's Festival Hall. The choir was a major success at the 2003 Edinburgh Festival. Soweto Gospel Choir formed a year prior and being virtually unknown were an instant success. The Scotsman Newspaper exclaimed in its review, "Nothing can really prepare you for the riot of exuberance and depth of emotion."

Soweto Gospel Choir draws from the churches and communities in and around South Africa's most famous township. It mixes earthy rhythms with rich harmonies to uplift the soul and express the energy of South Africa. African gospel originated as a blend of traditional music rooted in song and percussion combined with the influence of 19th century missionary music. From this a new and exciting style of music evolved - African gospel, celebrating all facets of daily life.

The choir has 26 members aged from 18 to 43. They are all lead singers in their local churches. The concert includes a four piece rhythm section, drumming and dancers. Soweto Gospel Choir through their own charity Vukani raises awareness and funds to support AIDS orphans. CR

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