The Pretoria Bach Choir has been keeping sacred choral music alive and well in the larger Pretoria area since 1962, making the profound experience of singing great choral works with orchestra possible for everybody.

The members of the choir are individuals from all walks of life who share a passion for the great music of Bach, Handel, Schutz, Mozart etc. They also perform sacred choral music from the 17th and 18th centuries, because they found it to offer one of the best ways to relax and deal with the demands of everyday living. As on member of the choir puts it: “It is musical and artistic “gym” for the soul, heart and mind! Performing this music keeps together what the technological era in which we live, tries to pull apart.” 

The choir is conducted by Gerben Grooten. Born, bred and educated in The Netherlands with 2 Master Degrees in Percussion and Conducting respectively, he came south and has been a wonderful addition to music industry locally. He understands and participates in all genres of music, (Musical Director of Hatfield Christian Church / played drums for Shakira at her concert during the World Cup in 2010!), but has an extraordinary love for, and understanding of the music of Bach and of the Baroque era. He serves this love through his involvement with the Choir. He remains committed to the Choir even though he has become a highly sought after conductor all over South Africa. His knowledge, vast international experience and profound insights into the music make rehearsals a truly unique experience.

Anybody with a good singing voice, the willingness to attend rehearsals every week and to learn the music at home is welcome to join the choir. Auditions are being held regularly, as required.

Rehearsals are every Monday evening from 19:30 to 22:00 at the Pretoria Oos Laerskool (Primary School) hall.

To join, please go to the choir’s website and click on “Want to join” or send an email to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) now.

Published 24 October 2013