The KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra
and the UNISA Music Foundation have agreed to form a partnership spanning the
next three years.
This will include the Orchestra
accompanying UNISA’s national and international music competitions as well as
mutually beneficial commitments to fostering music education and development in
South Africa.
The UNISA International Music Competitions
were established in 1982 to create an opportunity for promising young musicians
in the classical music tradition to be discovered, recognised and financially
supported. It also creates an opportunity for local competitors to participate
and gain international experience. To date, the competitions have focused on
piano, strings, voice and organ soloists. In 2014, for the first time, the
competition featured flute and clarinet. 65 applications were received from 57
countries. 27 competitors were selected, ranging in age from 20-28, and drawn
from twelve countries including South Africa. Prize money totals approximately
R1 million.
Mr Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and
Artistic Director of the Orchestra says, “The KZN Philharmonic’s mission is to
contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of all South Africans by
presenting concerts of a high calibre and integrating music into the learning
experience of our children. It is no coincidence that the UNISA Music
Foundation has invited our orchestra to accompany the finalists in their
prestigious competitions.”
Widely regarded as Africa’s premier
orchestra the KZN Philharmonic has established itself as a musical force to be
reckoned with and as an ensemble willing to break down preconceived notions of
what an orchestra should be.
2013, the Orchestra’s 30th anniversary
year, proved to be a milestone of achievements highlighted by presenting the
globally-renowned Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra from Amsterdam on their first
African tour; hosting Durban and Johannesburg symphony concerts with one of the
world’s great violinists, Sarah Chang; a busy residency at the National Arts Festival
in Grahamstown, followed by a tour to Marseille and Paris, France with a
concert on 18 July in tribute to former President Nelson Mandela’s 95th
birthday. The final honour was the privilege of performing at Mandela’s funeral
in Qunu.
Equally important is the KZN Philharmonic’s
commitment to furthering the cause of classical music in South Africa.
Throughout the year the musicians perform educational concerts and community
engagement programmes which expose more than 25,000 urban, township and rural
learners to the delights of music. In their commitment to nurturing talent, the
KZN Philharmonic’s National Cadetship Programme has produced over 30
accomplished young musicians who work as professionals around South Africa and
the world.
Under the baton of British conductor Julian
Clayton, the KZN Philharmonic performed its first association with UNISA Music
Foundation at the first UNISA International Flute & Clarinet Competition on
February 14 and 15.
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