Rand Symphony Orchestra’s picnic concert a celebration of classical music
Well-known classical music pieces are played by old and new talents at Rand Symphony Orchestra's Picnic Concert.
A vibrant and colourful celebration of classical music welcomed guests to the Rand Symphony Orchestra Picnic Concert on September 3.
The annual event at Domus Dei NG Kerk, Blairgowrie, is always well-attended and this year was no different. More than 200 community members stretched out their blankets or found great spots for their camping chairs before opening their picnic baskets and cooler boxes for refreshments to enjoy while they listened to world-class classical music performances.
“The goal was to bring music to the community – to show them we are here and can put on another great concert for them,” said orchestra chairperson Johan Kohler. “The feedback was excellent.”
Musical director Carel Henn led a complete and diverse orchestra on the day to perform a variety of well-known works by Nikolai, Handel, Vivaldi, Offenbach, Strauss, Verdi, Grieg, Faure and Elgar. These included the Overture to the Merry Wives of Windsor and the well-loved Pomp and Circumstance March.
The orchestra was also joined by André de Bruyn as a soloist on classical guitar. Furthermore, there was a surprise performance of Jacques Offenbach’s Barcarolle by the young and talented singers Ciska Raubnheimer and Maryna Henn.
The inclusion of these three talents was a highlight for Kohler.
Next up the orchestra will collaborate with the Drakensberg Old Boys Choir and Voces Libres Chamber Choir Stabat Mater by Karl Jenkins, also featuring Jeppe High School for Girls choir, orchestra and music staff. This performance will be at the Linder Auditorium on October 29, with Henn as conductor again and Megan Napier the vocal soloist.
Details: Rand Symphony Orchestra info@randsymphony.co.za
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