Mangisondele Nkosi Yam

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Now available for treble choirs, this traditional Zulu praise and worship song is written in the isicathamiya style—an a cappella form featuring close harmonies that originated among Zulu mine workers during the apartheid era. The piece opens with two soloists calling out, followed by a choral response. Dramatic and powerful, it builds in intensity, with a vibrant rhythmic section at its heart. The title translates to “Let Me Be Nearer, My Lord.” A pronunciation and translation guide is included for ease of learning. For an authentic interpretation, consider viewing the Tuks Camerata performance of the SATB voicing on YouTube.