Washington DC Youth Orchestra brings South Africa tour to the Cape

Washington’s acclaimed DC Youth Orchestra Program (DCYOP) is bringing its South Africa tour to the Cape next week, with two concerts on 7 and 8 July joined by the South African Youth Choir.

The orchestra, under the baton of artistic director Evan Ross Solomon, performs first at Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium in Parow on Tuesday 7 July at 19:00, followed by a concert at St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town on Wednesday 8 July at 19:00. The South African Youth Choir will be directed by Phil Robinson.

About DCYOP

Founded in 1960, DCYOP has grown into one of the United States’ leading youth music education organisations, drawing students from more than 200 public, public charter and private schools across the Washington DC region.

The programme is open to young musicians aged 4½ to 18, regardless of background or prior experience, and is built on the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn a musical instrument and play in a quality orchestra.

The orchestra boasts an impressive international pedigree, having toured 24 countries, performed for US presidents and diplomats, and collaborated with some of the world’s most celebrated musicians, including Aaron Copland, Yo-Yo Ma, Gustavo Dudamel, Lorin Maazel, Mstislav Rostropovich, Marvin Hamlisch and Kevin Deas. It was also the first youth orchestra to perform at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington DC.

Recent international tours have taken the orchestra to Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic. The South Africa visit continues DCYOP’s long tradition of cultural exchange through music.

Programme

The evening opens with Norman Dello Joio’s “Variations, Chaconne, and Finale”, followed by DCYOP composer Raffie McEachin’s ”The Primordial Orb Dances”. Brahms’ ”Schicksalslied” (“Song of Destiny”), Op. 54, performed with the South African Youth Choir, and DCYOP composer Kalman Levitin’s ”Chimera” complete the first half.

After the intermission Ross’ own composition ”Hematite” will precede the evening’s centrepiece, Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 in G major.

Venues and times

Tuesday 7 July: Hugo Lambrechts Auditorium, Picton Road, Parow.

Wednesday 8 July: St George’s Cathedral, 5 Wale Street, Cape Town City Centre.

Doors open at 18:30 and the concerts start at 19:00.

Attendance is free but booking via Quicket is essential: Hugo Lambrechts or St George’s

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