The African Choir of Norfolk has been making remarkable strides this year, thanks to the dedication of our choir members and our shared commitment to making a positive difference in the place we now proudly call home.
A Historic Occasion at Canterbury Cathedral
Following our performance at Norwich Cathedral during Black History Month last year, the African Choir of Norfolk was invited to submit a proposal to perform at the Installation of the Archbishop of Canterbury in March.
What we expected to be a few quiet months of reflection after completing our five-year journey as a Signature Project of the Autumn Festival of Norfolk soon became incredibly busy. As more information was requested for our proposal, we gradually realised the significance of what we had been invited to be part of.
Then, in the early hours of 25 March, we left Norfolk at 5:00 a.m. for Canterbury to take part in the historic installation of The Most Reverend Elisabeth Sarah Mullally, the 125th Archbishop of Canterbury and the first woman to hold the office.
The service was deeply moving. For many of us, including choir members from different faith backgrounds, it was impossible not to appreciate the historical and spiritual significance of the occasion.
The privilege of contributing to such a landmark event is something we will carry with us for the rest of our lives. We were overwhelmed by the messages of support and encouragement from people around the world who followed the ceremony on social media and recognised the symbolism and joy of the occasion. A warm smile from His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales as we processed through Canterbury Cathedral made the experience even more memorable.
A Celebration of Culture at the Royal Norfolk Show
There was little time to rest after returning home, as preparations immediately began for another major event—the Royal Norfolk Show.
Following a chance meeting with the show’s CEO, Mark Nicholas, who shared his vision of creating a colourful Carnival of Cultures, our Artistic Director, Anna Mudeka, helped bring that vision to life by working with artists and producers from across the community.
The celebration featured a specially commissioned piece of music alongside samba, salsa, Morris dancing, African singing and drumming, creating a spectacular showcase of culture and community. Children from schools across Norfolk took part, and it was inspiring to see business, farming, education and the arts come together in one vibrant celebration.
The joy on the faces of audiences, both young and old, spoke volumes. Anna Mudeka also had the honour of welcoming Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, and sharing the story behind this significant community project.
Lord Mayor’s Procession
By this point, the choir certainly deserved a break—but our journey was not over.
A wonderful collaboration between the African Choir of Norfolk and the International Young Drummers, made up of asylum seekers and refugees living in Norfolk, brought even more energy and colour to this year’s Lord Mayor’s Procession through the streets of Norwich.
Through carefully choreographed singing, drumming and movement, the performers created an infectious atmosphere that captivated spectators throughout the parade.
The effort was rewarded when the African Choir of Norfolk and the International Young Drummers were announced as winners of this year’s award for the Best Engaging and Best Dressed Performers.
BBC One’s Songs of Praise
Surely it was finally time for a rest?
Not quite.
As part of this year’s Royal Norfolk Show, the BBC’s Songs of Praise visited to capture the spirit of Norfolk farming and agriculture. During their visit, they became interested in learning more about the African Choir of Norfolk and our connection to farming within our county.
Many of our choir members grew up helping to cultivate family fields in their countries of origin. While farming in Norfolk may look very different—with its tractors and combine harvesters—we continue to grow vegetables and traditional foods in our own gardens. It is something that keeps us connected to our heritage while strengthening our sense of belonging here in Norfolk.
Our story, celebrating both music and farming, will be featured on BBC One’s Songs of Praise on Sunday, 16 August.
And then… just maybe… we might finally have a little break.
Thank You
To everyone who has supported the African Choir of Norfolk throughout this incredible journey, thank you.
Your encouragement, kindness and belief in what we do have made these achievements possible. We are deeply grateful and look forward to sharing many more memorable moments with you in the future.
Anna Mudeka
Artistic Director
African Choir of Norfolk