Overview
Acapella is a term used to describe choral music that has no instrumental accompaniment. Most countries in Africa have their own traditions of acapella singing and songs are passed down orally through many generations. The Zulu styles of singing from South Africa which developed around the start of the 20th century are the most well know today.
Traditionally African acapella songs have been used to express and foster a sense of community. They might be performed at religious ceremonies or other important occasions such as weddings and funerals. African music has always been closely tied to dance and even when they tour around the world famous acapella choirs will still use a lot of dance and movement in the formal concerts they give.
As acapella singing is an oral tradition songs are performed from memory. Although there is usually no conductor a soloist will often lead the group.
Two famous South African choral groups are Soweto Gospel Choir and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.