The Drakensberg Boys Choir has dedicated its rendition of Mzwandile Mabuza’s ‘Duduz’umoya Wami’ to founder John Tungay and his family.
Image: Screenshot
What better way to pay tribute to your founder than with music? That was how the Drakensberg Boys Choir School honoured the late John Tungay, who died on Sunday, March 22.
On Tuesday, the choir announced it was mourning Tungay’s death, and dedicated its rendition of Mzwandile Mabuza’s ‘Duduz’umoya Wami’ to Tungay and his family.
“As a community, we honour a visionary whose faith, courage, and conviction in the power of music gave rise to one of South Africa’s most cherished institutions,” the choir said.
It said that Tungay planted more than a choir when he established the school in 1967. He planted a mission grounded in ministry, excellence, and the shaping of young men for lives of purpose and service.
“From those humble beginnings grew an iconic South African institution whose influence has echoed across continents. Because of his vision, generations of Drakies have carried our music across the world as proud ambassadors of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage,” the choir said.
“His legacy extends far beyond the stage. The boys who leave our valley today — confident, principled, and compassionate — are living proof of the dream he pursued nearly six decades ago.
“As we grieve, we also give thanks for a life so purposefully lived. The song of the Drakensberg Boys Choir — the harmony of discipline, joy, faith, and excellence — exists because he believed it could. We honour him, we remember him, and we commit to carrying his vision forward.”
The choir expressed sympathy and prayers to the Tungay family.
“May his legacy live on in every note sung and every life shaped by the school he founded. May the Lord bless his memory, and may his song continue in all of us.”
Plans for the choir began when choirmaster Tungay converted the family farm in Cathkin Valley into a choir school in 1966, adding a dormitory, dining room, kitchen, and classroom. By 1967, 60 boys from across the country were enrolled. Realising the need for two hours of daily practice for overseas travel, Tungay asked his mother to teach academics.
The school has earned national and international recognition for its outstanding achievements, particularly regarding its music programme, musicians, and learners.
Drakondale School of the Arts also paid tribute to Tungay, who co-founded the school with Wendy Clarke in 2017, expressing deep respect and gratitude.
“His commitment to the growth and development of his country, South Africa, was as unwavering as his dedication to education. He believed firmly that education was not only a pathway to personal success, and a powerful tool to uplift communities and build a stronger nation,” Drakondale said.
John Tungay’s influence continues to inspire generations of young musicians and artists.
Image: Facebook / Drakondale School of the Arts
It said Tungay’s influence extended far beyond the confines of the classroom. He devoted himself to forging opportunities for youth, consistently emphasising the importance of integrity, discipline, and perseverance. His deep commitment to education and his ambition to empower others formed the foundation of all his achievements.
His leadership fostered a thriving environment for learners and teachers, grounded in purpose, strong principles, and excellence. His influence endures in all lives touched by his work.
“Those who knew him will remember not only his determination and leadership, but also his belief in people — his ability to see potential where others may not, and his willingness to invest in that potential,” Drakondale said.
“Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the strength of the institution he founded and in the countless individuals who continue to benefit from his vision.
“May we honour his memory by continuing the work he so passionately began, and by striving each day to contribute to the growth and development of our country, just as he did.”
The school added that Tungay’s impact will never be forgotten.
thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za