All 54 members of the choir share a common tradition and beginnings, singing in the church. They come from different backgrounds and professions - teachers, nurses, lecturers, public servants, staff in financial institutions and the private sector. Most important is that they come from communities that value song and choral singing in particular and that nurture this talent for the common good.

The church as a whole has had a major influence on the life of this choir. The South African Council of Churches (SACC) in particular has played a pivotal role, giving the choir much support and guidance in a number of projects. This was especially significant when it filled the political void created by the jailing and forced exile of our political leadership.

Biography:

To all intents and purposes, Gobingca George Mxadana & Imilonji ka Ntu Choral Society are connected! George, the real person, is a typical township boy who grew up in a community where music was but a way of life. Altar boy during his youth, he was exposed to church music from a very early age and this became his love.

His interest ranges from mbqanga, to kwela and marabi with the unbroken record in the National Choir Eisteddfod by winning 1st position with the next competitor being 2nd placed with a 10 point margin! Imilonji kaNtu Choral Society was the first choir to perform indigenous music in the "own choice song" section and also perform in African attire at the Nation Choir Competitions.

In 1987, George's excellence in music saw him win the SAA sponsored Conductor of the Year Award. His guidance saw the choir perform the Catholic liturgy in French at the Basilica in St. Denis during the 1998 Soccer World Cup. He has served on numerous bodies including the Arts and Culture Trust and as chairman of the Old Mutual and Telkom National Choir Festival.

Significant Performances:

• European Choir Festival (1989): Performed Britten's War Requiem and Prokofiev's Cantata "Alexander Nevsky" in Germany with choirs from 12 nations.
• National Symphony Orchestra (1991): Several performances of Beethoven's Symphony No 9.
• "Nkosi the Healing Song" (1992): Production featuring Mara Louw, Jabu Khanyile, and James Mthoba.
• Presidential Inaugurations: Performed at the inaugurations of President Mandela and President Thabo Mbeki.
• International Performances: Conducted for Queen Elizabeth II, Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands, and at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in Wales (1997).

SAMA Awards:

• 1996: SAMA for Best Choral Performance (CD: "Ibuyile I-Afrika").
• 2001: Second SAMA for Best Choral Performance (CD: "Hymns; Songs of the People").

Mary Ntsoaki 'Noxabiso' Mxadana Excellence Award:

Initiated to recognize contributions to choral music development. Mary was one of the most talented contralto singers and an astute administrator who set high standards for the choir. The award recognizes:

• Musical Excellence
• Administrative Skills
• Networking Skills
• Strategic Vision

"Flower of Soweto":

Following the successful performance of "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrica", the society released "Flower of Soweto" (Blomster i Soweto), a compilation of local popular hits ranging from dance, traditional, and gospel songs.

African Sound Experience:

Collaboration with the Traditional African Orchestra (TAO) and Drumstruck in Newtown. Featured indigenous instruments like the Kudu horn, marimba, tshikona reed pipe, and uhadi bow harp.