(Marion Spence, Rotarian
group president, presents Dr Dubin with the award)
Vera Dubin, the doyenne of classical music in Durban through
her highly active Friends of Music, was recently awarded the prestigious Paul
Harris Fellowship Award from the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
The citation reads “in appreciation of tangible and
significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and
friendly relations among peoples of the world.”
“I feel incredibly honoured,” says Vera Dubin, “and it is
good to feel acknowledged for the work I have done for classical music over the
years.”
Dubin created the Friends of Music in 1982 when the city had
disbanded its orchestra and lovers of classical music were left in the lurch.
With sheer dogged determination and commitment, she persuaded funders, donors
and sponsors to support her in her endeavour to bring top class soloists to
Durban to perform for her growing number of supporters.
In 1983, Durban once again had an orchestra when the KZN
Philharmonic was formed, and the two organisations now work closely together.
Friends of Music support pre-concert lectures before the KZNPO symphony season
concerts.
Friends of Music also provide a monthly recital platform for
distinguished international, national and local musicians of the highest
artistic order. These recitals feature a curtain-raiser in the form of Prelude
Performers, young up and coming musicians who are given an opportunity to
showcase their talents.
Valued support funding is received from the National Lottery
Distribution Trust Fund and the National Arts Council.
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