A Somerset West musician is one of 11 talented young instrumentalists and singers who will debut with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) at the Youth Classical Concert at Artscape Theatre in the Cape Town CBD tomorrow evening (Saturday 1 October) at 19:30.
The 22-year-old soprano Zelmarie Barnard and 10 other young soloists were chosen from bona fide music students in the province to participate in the 51st edition of the concert, which is a collaboration between Artscape and the CPO.
The concert, a celebration of young musical talent, has grown extensively over the years to accommodate the enormous interest and exceptional talent of young instrumentalists and musicians. This prestigious event, with support from the City of Cape Town, acknowledges that talent and provides an opportunity for young musicians to gain professional experience by performing with the CPO.
The musicians auditioned to be part of the popular youth musical event, with auditions adjudicated by Nina Schumann, Patrick Tikolo, Neil Robertson, Bongiwe Nakani, Marvin Weavers and Brandon Phillips, resident conductor of the CPO. He will also take to the podium as conductor of the concert and is also musical director and conductor of the Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
Says Louis Heyneman, CEO of the CPO: “With musicians of the calibre of those performing [tomorrow] we know that classical music in South Africa is in a good place. We are justifiably proud that many of the young performers are products of our own vast education and development programme. This collaboration with Artscape gives young people, many for the first time, the chance to gain performance experience with a symphony orchestra as soloists, and helps prepare them for a future in music.”
According to Artscape CEO Marlene le Roux, it’s a privilege for Artscape and the CPO to host the Youth Classical Concert on a larger scale in the Opera House, after two years of restrictions, and offer patrons such an eclectic repertoire. “I sincerely appreciate the dedicated effort and enthusiasm of this year’s participants,” she said.
“Music is a universal language that can be understood by all. It is a cohesive factor that binds cultures together, and Artscape thrives on inclusivity in all arts genres.”
Many concert performers have gone on to become professional musicians and music teachers over the years, passing on what they have learnt to the next generation of young musicians.
Ticket prices for the Youth Classical Concert range from R50 to R100, and can be purchased through Computicket, Shoprite and Checkers or Artscape Dial-a-Seat on 021 421 7695.
