Today (October 24), the KwaZulu-Natal
Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates its 30 year history of beautiful music by
performing Beethoven’s 9th Symphony – the choral symphony – which will blow the
minds of music lovers. Four leading South African soloists and four Durban
choirs will swell this rich choral favourite to exhilarating proportions in the
magnificent acoustics of the Durban City Hall.
Imagine the surround sound of Jesu Joy, the
memorable final movement of the Choral Symphony?
Known as the Natal Philharmonic in its
early days, the Orchestra performed this very same work in the Pietermaritzburg
City Hall on October 22, 1983, at their opening concert. Thirty years later and
now renowned for their World Symphony Series concerts played in three seasons a
year, the KZN Philharmonic lives up to its well-deserved reputation as
‘Africa’s Premier Orchestra’.
It is also committed to ensuring that the
youth of today, particularly those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds,
has access to the delights of music. Over 25,000 learners annually are
introduced to the orchestra instruments in educational concerts. Rural
residencies, each lasting a week, see the Orchestra spend a week in a country
community where their activities include school workshops, demonstrations and
community concerts. The KZN Philharmonic’s dedicated cadetship programme has
produced over 30 accomplished young musicians who work as professionals around
South Africa and the world.
Bongani Tembe, Artistic Director and Chief
Executive of the KZN Philharmonic says: “As the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic
Orchestra, we are committed to bringing the pleasure of classical music to all
members of our diverse society. We contribute to the improvement of the quality
of life of all South Africans by presenting concerts of high calibre and by
integrating music into the learning experience of our children. We also present
concerts that showcase the cultural heritage of our country and, over the
years, our programmes have attracted people of all races and ages who come to
our events just to enjoy themselves together as South Africans.”
Concert-goers on October 24 will not be
disappointed. After the concert, all members of the audience are invited to
celebrate the occasion with complimentary bubbly, birthday cake and chocolates
– and more live entertainment!
The KZN Philharmonic will use this occasion
to launch their Summer 2014 symphony concert season with amazing prizes for
those who buy their season tickets early. The new subscribers, as season ticket
holders are called, could win luxury accommodation at the Oyster Box in Mhlanga
Rocks, The St James on Venice, the da Vinci Hotel & Suites in Sandton (with
air tickets included,) the Mount Nelson in Cape Town or lunch and a round of
golf at the Durban Country Club, dinner at Bel Punto, lightweight luggage from
Turner’s Travel or a subscription to ClassicFeel magazine.
Booking for this exceptional birthday
concert is at Computicket and ticket prices range from R45 to R200.
The concert will take place in the City
Hall at 19h30. Parking at the Royal Hotel and there is a strong security
contingent on duty around the City Hall.
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