Vox Simba Community Choir

Community choir with a large repertoire

Vox Simba is a Community Choir drawing on talented voices from all over London. Originally set up in association with the Woolwich Simba Project, a community driven initiative, the choir uses the art form of Black Gospel singing to educate, inspire and thrill the many and diverse audiences who have been privileged to hear them.

Keen to remain a group belonging to the community and reflecting the many different backgrounds represented, the songs they sing are as eclectic as they are free flowing. Under the energetic conducting of Colin Anderson (Music Director), they bring together the music form to sing Negro Spirituals, Gospel anthems, 'Popular' music, as well as African songs and chants. Their show-opening rendition of the adopted South African national anthem Nkosi Sikelele, is evocative and moving, as they lend their 'gospel licks' to this internationally acclaimed standard. Music styles and influences include well-known artists such as Stevie Wonder, Bill Withers and the ubiquitous Bob Marley; from classic soul – The Isley Brothers, to new R&B songs like that of R Kelly. They deliver these songs with ease as they flit from using a full band (both live and backing tracks), to the "haunting" true sound of 'a cappella'.

As part of their community drive, they have been involved with and supported various charities such as. Breast Cancer Campaign, Mind, Home Start and Sickle-Cell Anaemia, and took part in a series of concerts in the Greenwich area to raise awareness and funds for these causes.

Originally set up to perform within the context of theatre and musicals. Vox Simba has rapidly expanded their repertoire and reputation, performing at a wide-ranging number of events.

In addition to Vox Simba's ever-increasing diary of performances, the choir has been developing and delivering an ongoing workshop and teaching programme in schools and after school clubs, working in the oral tradition. Their programme has been described as "exciting, challenging and inspiring." - Michael Peters, Director of Education, Lambeth.

*****

"We would like to take this opportunity to say how wonderful Vox Simba were at our wedding. They made the day complete! They have amazing voices and are SO professional." - Mark & Emma