What happens to the gifted violinist who becomes a lawyer? The flautist who becomes a doctor? For conductor Reghardt Kühn this question sparked the creation of something revolutionary in South Africa’s musical landscape – the Winelands Philharmonic Orchestra (WPO), founded in May 2022.
“We have extraordinary musical talent in this country,” Kühn explained. “School orchestras, youth orchestras, university programmes produce passionate, capable musicians. But once people leave that structured environment the opportunities shrink dramatically.”
The idea emerged when orchestra member Izelle Theunissen approached him with a compelling argument: non-professional musicians needed a permanent orchestra with high standards. Kühn’s musical journey began in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, where he joined one of the country’s last remaining cadet marching bands.
After touring with the KZN Youth Orchestra to Stellenbosch’s International Chamber Music Festival during his matric year, he knew music would define his life.
Kühn completed degrees in composition, orchestration and orchestral conducting at Stellenbosch University (SU), where he met his wife, a medical doctor and percussionist, who now plays in the WPO.
Unique community model
The WPO operates on the principle of integration rather than exclusion. “We create a shared standard and work towards it together,” Kühn noted.
Professional musicians mentor sections where needed, but ego doesn’t dominate the space. The result is a collaborative culture where members from different professions, ages and backgrounds unite every Thursday evening.
“Most towns in Europe have some form of community ensemble that everyone rallies around,” Kühn said. “We aim to serve local choirs, schools and community groups that would otherwise never have access to a full symphony orchestra.”
The diversity brings unexpected rewards. Kühn finds deep satisfaction in conducting a professional musician alongside a university student, medical specialist and someone returning to music after years away. “You must push the orchestra to its limits, but know where that limit is,” he explained.
Nurturing future generations
Youth development forms a crucial part of WPO’s vision. It has presented dedicated emerging artists concerts and collaborated with groups like Muzukidz and youth ensembles from Stanford. Young musicians gain invaluable orchestral experience while learning discipline and professionalism from seasoned players.
The collaboration with the recently re-established Stellenbosch Youth Orchestra (SYO) exemplifies this commitment. “You can’t have a philharmonic orchestra without those members first starting instrumental lessons as youngsters,” Kühn emphasised. “You can’t have Springbok rugby without bulletjie rugby first.”
Success isn’t measured in accolades but in community impact. When concerts sell out, musicians travel long distances to participate and students step into leadership roles, the model proves its worth. The orchestra is woven into the cultural fabric of the Winelands, with Kühn hoping people will support it “just like their local rugby team.”
The coffee break during three-hour rehearsals plays a surprisingly crucial role. “It’s here where community is developed and nurtured,” Kühn reflects. “People catch up with orchestra friends, vent about work and share joy. Everyone goes home with heads a bit lighter and hearts a bit fuller.”
Looking ahead
The upcoming Classical Kaleidoscope concert at the Stellenbosch Town Hall on Saturday 21 March at 18:00 showcases this community spirit, featuring soprano Marina Erasmus and a programme spanning Berlioz to musical theatre. The SYO will open the programme, demonstrating the pipeline from young musicians to seasoned community players.
Kühn’s advice for other communities considering similar initiatives is simple: “Start small. Grow organically. Be patient. Most importantly, know why you are doing things; if you know your why it’s easier for people to follow and support you.”
The WPO proves that professional excellence and community inclusion aren’t mutually exclusive – they’re mutually enriching.
• For more information on Classical Kaleidoscope and online tickets can be bought through Webtickets.
You must be logged in to post a comment.