The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) rendered a virtual performance on Mother’s Day. The JPO were also joined by the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra for a performance dedicated to moms.
This virtual performance, produced by artistic director at the JPO and KZNPO, Bongani Tembe, featured two of the most well-known lullabies; Brahms’ Wiegenlied, and the ever-populare Zulu lullaby, Thula Thula, with each musician recording his or her own performance at home, based on an orchestral arrangement by Eddie Clayton.
The video featured a mini show reel entitled ‘moments with mom,’ which has been made by emerging filmmakers.
“On this Mother’s Day we paid tribute to our everyday heroines with the unique orchestral arrangement of these two timeless lullabies. We hope that this beautiful music will help all of us to reflect on the crucial and nurturing role that mothers play to make our world a better place. Like the joy of music, a mother’s love overflows forever and is essential to our wellbeing,” said Tembe.
Tembe added at that “I specifically chose Brahms’ lullaby since it is one of the most popular lullabies in the world; and decided to intertwine it with Thula Thula; a popular lullaby in Zulu culture, which has been sung by mothers to their babies over generations. Whilst these lullabies originate from different continents, they both radiate the universal power of unconditional love.”
Following the success of Amazing Grace, which went viral, this performance is the second one of many more to come from the orchestras as the industry explores new ways to entertain and delight audiences during the Covid-19 national lockdown.
The internet has certainly allowed the show to go on ? virtually, at least, and the couch has become the best (and safest) seat in the house.
Whilst the viewing of performance won’t be the same as a live concert for a while, we truly have seen the adaptability of the performing-arts.
Details: YouTube; Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra/KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra
