Coastal women’s choir set to represent the nation in Germany

A Namibian women's chamber choir based at the coast are preparing to represent the country and the SADC region in Germany.

The CGals choir was founded in 1998 by a group of students from Vilna Music who shared a passion for singing.

Over the years, it has grown into one of the few women's chamber choirs in Namibia, offering a space for women of different ages and backgrounds to come together through music.

Their trip will focus on performances rather than competition.

A church concert is scheduled for 3 June, followed by additional performances on 15 and 16 June alongside established male choirs.

The choir’s repertoire includes traditional Namibian songs and sacred music and African music pieces.

While they have explored different styles over time, the group's focus remains on developing strong, trained voices and maintaining a classical choral standard.

The CGals choir was invited by the international music association Interkultur as special guests to take part in a series of concerts in Germany.

Their schedule includes performances at the Stimmen der Welt Concert in Gießen, a Friendship Concert in Watzenborn-Steinberg, the 270th Anniversary Jubilee Concert in Watzenborn-Steinberg, and a performance at St Peter’s Church in Gießen, all taking place in June.

Wilna Liebenberg, the choir’s director, said the invitation to Germany follows years of hard work and participation in international platforms such as Interkultur.

“The choir has performed abroad, including in Spain, where connections were formed with international figures like conductor and adjudicator Dr Thomas Kreiling.”

Liebenberg highlighted the benefits of the invitation.

“This is exposure for the choir and for Namibia. We represent the country not only through our music, but also through how we carry ourselves,” she said.

Financial challenges

While the choir has had memorable moments in the past, including Christmas and Easter concerts, the focus leading up to this trip has been on preparation.

Like many other independent groups, the choir faces financial challenges.

As an adult choir, it does not fall under funding structures typically available to school or youth choirs. Its members range from teenagers to retirees, all contributing to keep the choir active.

Women's voices

Liebenberg explained that the choir’s purpose has always been simple: “We wanted to create an opportunity for women who want to sing. In Namibia, those opportunities are limited, so this space matters.”

The choir hopes to represent Namibia with discipline and respect, both on and off the stage.

While the local music scene continues to grow through digital platforms, the group remains focused on choral music and live performance.

Looking ahead, the choir plans to continue performing and seeking similar opportunities abroad. With limited local competitions available to them, international platforms remain important for their growth.

Being invited is an honour. We are humbled and proud to represent Namibia,” Liebenberg said.