(Juan Burgers: photo by
Val Adamson)
Author, journalist and columnist William Charlton-Perkins pays tribute to the late Juan Burgers
I was deeply saddened yesterday [Wednesday [September 9] to hear of the passing in Hermanus of my dear friend Juan Burgers. Juan was one of the most multi-skilled musicians to have worked in the South African performing arts diaspora over the past five decades.
Renowned for his prowess as a choral director, an extremely accomplished pianist, specialising in accompaniment, and, most particularly, perhaps, as a highly sought-after specialist singing teacher and performance coach.
An alumnus of the University of Pretoria and the University of Cape Town, he honed his skills as a musician, selectively absorbing the teachings of many professionals, most notably establishing ties with Emma Renzi and Dawn Brown. Burgers built on their teaching with his discovery of the ancient yogic technique of Mandra Sadhana, the spiritual practice of breath and sound.
Along with the bel canto school of Enrico Caruso, this underpinned his vocal technique across the decades. Working with virtually all the major performing arts institutions in his home country, as well as touring and working in India, Malaysia, Germany and France, he amassed a vast repertoire of choral works, operas, lieder, and musicals.
His career at home and abroad saw him collaborate with many of the world's leading conductors and soloists; it is a testament to Juan Burger’s reputation as a voice pedagogue extraordinaire that several of his students, not least the magnificent bass Reuben Mbonambi, are now pursuing successful careers abroad.
Likewise, in the field of choral conducting, Juan Burger’s imprint in conjuring minutely nuanced dynamics in his choristers’ delivery of cornerstone concert repertoire was palpable to cognoscenti throughout South Africa and beyond.
As a friend, Juan was a delight to be with on so many levels. I will miss him more than I can say. As he will be by so many others who valued his rare gifts, as well as his lovable foibles.
Sincere condolences to his brother Quintus and his sister, Anna Marie, and to all his friends and colleagues who cherished him. Fly with the angels, dearest Djarn. – William Charlton-Perkins