A young oboe player from Silversands has been appointed by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) as a cadet in its Young Artist Development Programme.

20 opportunities

Andrea Salomo will join the CPO on 1 August, alongside two other cadets. The one-year programme, which will afford the young musicians at least 20 performance opportunities, has been funded by the L&S Chiappini Trust and the Azriel and Moira Fine Foundation.

Salomo says the appointment is one of her greatest achievements to date, as it has long been her career goal to play professionally in an orchestra. “Now I have the honour of being part of one of the best orchestras in the country. I look forward to the experience of becoming an orchestral musician and to shaping younger musicians in the process. I especially look forward to giving back, sharing my knowledge, and gaining experience at the same time.

“This is a dream come true — one I thought for years was out of reach, especially because the positions in professional spaces were all filled. But to God be the glory for this opportunity, created through this wonderful initiative. When I heard the news, I was ecstatic and in disbelief! It was truly overwhelming. The emotional roller-coaster of an audition — and a successful one — overcame me. This is my first contract employment, and I am looking forward to an exciting year ahead,” says Salomo.

Family support

She adds that she has had tremendous support from family, teachers, and the community since the very beginning of her music career. “I trust God’s timing and believe that you can literally do anything you put your mind to — your dreams and goals are never too big. Just work hard, be patient, and have faith, with God on your side,” she says.

The CPO’s chief executive and artistic director, Adriaan Fuchs, said the programme was designed to equip young musicians with the confidence, skills, and experience needed to pursue careers in the industry. “Cadets rehearse and perform alongside professional orchestral players under the guidance of dedicated CPO mentors, while also gaining valuable insight into the orchestra’s education and community development programmes.”

The cadets will also support activities at the CPO Music Academy and the Masidlale grassroots music training programme.

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