The National Theatre of Namibia (NTN) has extended the audition deadline for its inaugural Blended Voices – A Namibian Choral Celebration competition, giving choirs across the country more time to submit their entries.
The new deadline is 26 February 2025, extended to encourage broader participation. The competition, scheduled for 26 April 2025, aims to celebrate Namibian choral music by blending traditional and contemporary influences. NTN decided to extend auditions to ensure more choirs have the opportunity to prepare and apply. Desiree Mentor, Public Relations Officer at NTN, emphasised the significance of the competition.
“Blended Voices goes beyond just promoting gospel music. This competition allows choirs to explore various genres, from folk-inspired pieces to modern arrangements, while staying true to Namibian musical traditions,” she said. She added that the competition provides a crucial platform for choirs to gain recognition. “For many participants, this could be a breakthrough moment, opening doors to collaborations, audience growth and opportunities in the music industry,” Mentor said.
The competition will see the top five choirs advance to the final stage, where they will compete for a grand prize of N$50,000. The event will unfold in three rounds, with choirs performing pre-selected contemporary Namibian songs ,before competing in a final round with a prescribed piece.
A panel of external choral music experts will judge the competition based on intonation, diction, etiquette, technique, and overall musicality. While SATB (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) formations are encouraged, variations will be permitted to enhance performances.
Mentor further highlighted NTN’s vision for the competition, saying, “We want Blended Voices to become an annual event that not only strengthens Namibia’s choral music scene,but also creates opportunities for choirs to be recognised on a national and international level.” NTN encourages choirs from all regions to take advantage of the extended deadline, and submit their auditions via WhatsApp at +264 81 366 2133 on February 26, 2025.