Music lovers in Hermanus are in for an extraordinary evening as the internationally acclaimed St Petersburg String Quartet brings their South African debut tour to our shores, with a very special performance scheduled for 24 May at Sandbaai.

Founded in 1985 as the Leningrad String Quartet, this world-class ensemble has evolved into one of the most respected chamber music groups on the global stage. Comprising Alla Aranovskaya (1st violin), Ned Kellenberger (2nd violin), Boris Vayner (viola) and Sascha Groschang (cello), the quartet brings decades of experience, passion and extraordinary musical artistry together. Their 2026 South African tour programme is nothing short of breathtaking, featuring masterworks by Ravel, Brahms, Glazunov and Shostakovich, a rich and deeply moving selection that promises to stir the soul of even the most casual music listener.

Speaking of Ravel, there is a profoundly touching story attached to his music that seems especially fitting for a concert occasion such as this. The great composer suffered from a progressive neurological illness that eventually robbed him of his memories. Close to the end of his life friends took him to a concert. He sat quietly, listening to the beautiful music being performed, and after a long while, with tears streaming down his face, he turned to his companions and asked softly, “This is beautiful. Who wrote it?” His friends gently replied, “You did.” It is a story that reminds us of the timeless and transcendent power of music, the kind of power that the St Petersburg String Quartet channels in every performance.The quartet’s Hermanus concert is a rare opportunity for Overberg residents to experience world-class chamber music right on their doorstep.

For more information call 082 940 4338 or send an email to renedup@telkomsa.net