​​​​​​For drama student, John Graayenstein, the best part about being in the Stellenbosch University Choir is that he can simply be himself and sing his heart out.

In the month of Youth Day, we put the spotlight on eight members of the SU Choir, one from each voice group. Together with more than 100 other individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures and fields of study, and under the leadership of conductor André van der Merwe, they inspire and transport audiences across the world with their unique sound. ​Visit the SU Choir's YouTube channel​ to listen to their songs.​

John took a moment to answer a couple of questions about himself:

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how it came about that you joined the choir.

My name is John Joseph Graayenstein, I have a twin sister named Joy. I enjoy singing and composing music and I have a huge passion for musical theatre and dramatic arts. I was born in Grahamstown, but moved to Cape Town when I was very little and have lived here ever since.

I am currently in my second year of studying BA Drama and Theatre Studies and I love every second of it. Being in the Stellenbosch University Choir was really a spur of the moment decision and one of the best decisions I have ever made. At the beginning of 2020 an extra first tenor was needed and as a first-year, fresh out of high school I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. A good friend of mine approached me and told me about this amazing opportunity, I auditioned that very same day and 24 hours later I got the glorious news that I have been accepted into the University choir. What an awesome day that was! 

What do you enjoy most about being in the choir? 

My favourite part about being in the choir is that I can simply be myself and sing my heart out, knowing that I have the privilege of sharing a stage with people that have the same passion for music and singing as I do. There are no words to describe the amount of joy that the choir brings to me. We are a family and that in itself is such a privilege and blessing. I consider myself a very lucky man to be part of this musical family.

With Youth Day in mind, what is your message of hope for other young people?

My message to the youth is that we only have one life and it is important to make every single moment count. Work hard and dream big, and know that it is only human to fall, but it is even more important to get back up and to try again. Keep trying and never ever give up on your dream.

What is your favourite song at the moment?

My favourite song at the moment is the beautiful hymn: "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine."  I find myself singing it to and from classes. It is so nice to be able to sing a hymn when your heart calls for it. It makes my heart so happy, it really does!​​