The Odeion School of Music (OSM) continues its 80th Anniversary celebrations with Stained Glass, a captivating piano recital by acclaimed pianist and composer Nicolene Gibbons, to be presented on Sunday 14 June at 15:30 in the Odeion on the main campus of the University of the Free State (UFS).

This special anniversary concert celebrates the artistry and musical language of renowned minimalist composer Philip Glass, whose distinctive compositional style has had a profound impact on contemporary classical music.

The programme offers audiences an immersive encounter with Glass’s meditative textures, rhythmic vitality, and emotional depth.

Born in Bloemfontein, Nicolene Gibbons began her musical journey at the UFS, where she studied piano with Catharina Struthers and composition with Prof. Johann Potgieter.

From an early age, she performed on radio and television, frequently presenting her own compositions.

She completed her BA Mus degree at UFS under the guidance of Nettie Immelman and was awarded prestigious overseas study bursaries from the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (Samro), the University of South Africa (Unisa), and the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM).

Gibbons subsequently obtained a B Mus Hons degree cum laude from the University of Cape Town, studying under Lamar Crowson, before continuing her studies at the Royal College of Music in London, where she earned a master’s degree in piano performance.

She later completed a second master’s degree in composition at the University of Cambridge.

Having spent nearly three decades in England working as a pianist, composer, and teacher, Gibbons later specialised in chamber music and Lied accompaniment.

Since returning to South Africa five years ago, she has continued to contribute to musical life as an ad hoc piano lecturer at the OSM.

The recital programme features significant works by Philip Glass including Piano Etudes – Book I and Mad Rush.

Glass’s Piano Etudes are celebrated for their hypnotic patterns, technical intricacy, and

introspective character, offering both performer and listener a deeply engaging musical

experience.

Mad Rush, one of the composer’s most iconic piano works, unfolds through shifting waves of tension and serenity, creating a compelling and contemplative soundscape.