The Drakensberg Boys’ Choir has lost the visionary who first imagined young voices rising from their quiet valley. John Tungay died on 22 March, closing a chapter that began nearly six decades ago. His dream transformed farmland in KwaZulu-Natal into one of South Africa’s most cherished musical institutions.
Tributes from former choristers, families, and music lovers have flowed from across continents. For many, the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir is more than a performance, but rather a rite of passage. Boys arrive uncertain, but leave confident, principled, and compassionate.
A CHOIR ROOTED IN FAITH AND COURAGE
In the early 1960s, Tungay served as choirmaster at Trinity Congregational Church. Around that time, he approached his parents with a bold idea. He wanted to convert their Cathkin Valley farm into a choir school.
The Tungay family had bought part of the farm in 1955. Financial pressure followed the tragic death of Tungay’s brother Peter in an air crash in 1960. A caravan park helped sustain the land. Yet John saw possibility rather than hardship.
By 1966, he had extended the farmhouse. Dormitories, a dining room, a kitchen, and a classroom took shape, and twenty boys enrolled the next year. The Drakensberg Boys Choir School was born.
By the following year, enrolment tripled. Daily practice soon stretched to two hours, driven by Tungay’s conviction that excellence would open global doors.
His mother, affectionately known as Ma Tungay, began teaching academics when travel to Winterton proved impractical; hence, the family’s commitment shaped the school’s foundation.
In 1981, the estate and buildings were sold to a Board of Directors, securing the school’s future.
DRAKENSBERG BOYS CHOIR’S LEGACY RESONATES WORLDWIDE
Today, the choir is synonymous with energetic concerts and musical versatility. Performances range from classical choral works to contemporary hits and indigenous South African music, with weekly concerts during term time continuing to draw loyal audiences.
The school’s mission remains clear: It prepares boys for life and leadership through excellence in music, academics, sport, and social enrichment in a Christian environment. Staff prioritise each boy’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Generations of choristers have travelled abroad as ambassadors of South African culture, their discipline and teamwork reflecting Tungay’s original vision.
His influence stretched far beyond the concert stage.
In a moving tribute, the choir dedicated its rendition of Mzwandile Mabuza’s Duduz’umoya Wami to Tungay and his family, conveying their grief and gratitude, sorrow and hope.
As the whole valley – and world – mourns with the Drakensberg Boys Choir, everybody also celebrates a life of purpose. For Southern Africans at home and abroad, his legacy remains a proud note in the country’s cultural story.
Tungay planted more than a school – he planted belief in the power of harmony. His influence will continue in every rehearsal room and concert hall where former Drakies stand tall.
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