(Choral conductor,
Khulekani Khumalo, takes guidance from Maestro Wolfram Christ. Pic by Val
Adamson)
Four conductors with backgrounds in the choral music
tradition lived their dream on the weekend when they had the opportunity to
conduct the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra under the watchful eye of
internationally-acclaimed conductor, Wolfram Christ, during a special once-off
conducting master-class.
For a conductor not experienced in working with a full
orchestra, to be given the opportunity of conducting the KZNPO while being
tutored by such a respected and admired conductor as Maestro Christ, is a
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. All four candidates were hugely grateful and
appreciative of being part of this new initiative.
“First the most important thing is to serve the composer;
then the most important thing is to listen; to remember to be precise .... and
not to stare at the music!” guided Christ.
Wolfram Christ, long-time first Principal Viola with the
Berlin Philharmonic, Principal Viola of the Lucerne Festival Orchestra and
Professor at Hochschule für Musik Freiburg, has become highly regarded as a
conductor epitomising sincerity and musical integrity.
Participating in the masterclass were Msizi Mnyandy (Clermont
Choir); Monty Manamela (Kopano Chorus in Gauteng); Khulekani Khumalo (Prince
Mshiyeni Choir in Umlazi) and Vumile Nomanyama (SA Singers).
“Change the World: Teach Music,” is a timeless mantra of
music teachers everywhere and is an integral part of the core philosophy of the
KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. Outside of the World Symphony Seasons and the
high-profile public concerts, the KZN Philharmonic has an extensive and
far-reaching programme of teaching and mentoring, as well as performances in
schools, institutions and homes in order to nurture new generations of music
audiences and performers.
“While serving South Africa with distinctly professional
orchestra performances, the KZN Philharmonic also dedicates much of its time
and energy to enriching the community through its education and development
programme. Today’s conducting session is in keeping with this transference of
skills which allows visiting conductors and soloists to present master-classes
for our up-and-coming stars, enabling them to learn from some of the world’s
best,” explains Bongani Tembe: Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the KZN
Philharmonic.
The KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra is currently in its
Summer Symphony Season performing an extraordinary programme of timeless,
beautiful music showcasing some of the finest musical talents from South Africa
and the world. For more information, click on the KZN Philharmonic’s advert at
the top of the page or contact 031 369 9438 or email bookings@kznphil.org.za
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