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THE annual Franschhoek Chamber Music Workshop and public performances will take place from 31 March to 7 April.
Approximately 60 talented young musicians of schoolgoing age come together at the Franschhoek Mountain Manor for a week of intensive music making, and are coached by some of the country's finest teachers and performing artists.
The Workshop Director, Barbara Kennedy, herself a cellist, is joined by her colleagues Peter Louis van Dijk (composer and conductor), Becky Steltzner (clarinetist), Elsabé Pretorius (flautist), and violinists Marina Louw and Xandi van Dijk.
This year sees the return of the internationally acclaimed Odeion String Quartet, resident in Bloemfontein, and once again, the superb concert pianist Francois du Toit will be on board.
One of the aims of the event is to bring good music to the Franschhoek Valley, and audiences will have opportunities to hear all the members of staff in performance.
* One notable event not to be missed is the Soirée hosted by Shirley Parkfelt in her elegant Franschhoek home on Friday 5 April at 19:30. Amongst other items, the great Sextet in G major Opus 36 by Brahms will be performed by the Odeion String Quartet, with Barbara Kennedy on 2nd cello and Marina Louw on 2nd viola.
Guests will be treated afterwards to a superb supper with wine, and an opportunity to socialise with the artistes. Since seating is limited, book early to secure a place at this prestigious event. Details and bookings may be obtained by phoning or faxing Mrs Parkfelt at 876-2691.
* On Wednesday 3 April at 19:00, the Franschhoek Mountain Manor will host a Soirée in the Ballroom. A buffet supper will be preceded by works performed by the professional performing staff of the Chamber Music Workshop. The highlight of the evening will be a performance of the beautiful Piano Quintet by Dvorak, given by one of South Africa's best loved concert pianists, Francois du Toit, whose family originated in the Franschhoek area.
He will be joined by the newly formed Sontonga String Quartet, namely Marc Uys and Waldo Alexander, violins, Xandi van Dijk, viola, and Brian Choveaux, cello. This Quartet has been chosen, over international competitors, to tour Europe with the Handspring Puppet Company playing the music of Kevin Volans.
Ticket prices for this superb musical feast are R90 (R45 for scholars). Bookings at the Franschhoek Mountain Manor (876-2071).
* Concerts will be held on Saturday 6 April at 20:00 and Sunday 7 April at 11:00 in the Manor Ballroom. Each student at the workshop will perform in his or her chamber group at these two concerts, presenting the works they have studied during the week.
These are opportunities for parents to see their children in action, and members of the public are welcome to attend, with admission being by voluntary donation towards the Bursary Fund for needy music pupils.
Further information may be obtained from Barbara Kennedy at 785-1483 or e-mail barbarak@iafrica.com. |
PAARLIET Celeste Loriston maak haar debuut op die KKNK se Rimpelfees saam met Liezl Swiegers in die kabaret 'Lyfalleen'.