The Endler Concert Series’ First Season has already captured the imagination of audiences, with a string of sold-out shows highlighting the enduring magic of live music in Stellenbosch.
As the series approaches the midpoint of its 2024 calendar, May and June promise an exciting line-up of world premieres, international collaborations, jazz milestones, youth showcases, and orchestral tributes.
A Premier Evening with Vega Trio and a New South African Work
On Thursday 16 May, the acclaimed Vega Trio—Louisa Theart (flute), Graham du Plessis (cello), and Nina Schumann (piano)—returns with a programme of nuance and power.
The concert features the world premiere of “Bulldozers” by South African composer Matthijs van Dijk, a bold and emotional work reflecting on themes of destruction and progress.
The programme also includes Gaubert’s “Trois Aquarelles”, Hilary Tann’s “Gardens of Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici”, and a jazz-tinged piano trio by Nikolai Kapustin.
Baroque Mastery in “Enlightened France”
Baroque music enthusiasts can look forward to “Enlightened France” on Thursday 23 May, featuring internationally celebrated artists Sarah Cunningham (viola da gamba) and Leon Schelhase (harpsichord), joined by violinist Annien Shaw. Performing on period instruments, they will breathe new life into works by Jacquet de la Guerre, Rameau, Marais, Couperin, and Duphly, in what promises to be a rare and historically authentic performance.
Spotlight: Jazz Division Showcase Launches New Chapter
A major highlight of the Endler Concert Series lands on Saturday 17 May with the SU Jazz Division Showcase, which marks the official launch of Stellenbosch University’s new Artist-in-Residence Programme.
The initiative was developed through the efforts of Dr Ncebakazi Mnukwana and Professor Sibusiso Moyo and represents a bold move towards celebrating and integrating South African musical heritage.
The evening will feature legendary Afro-Jazz guitarist Bheki Khoza and Cape Jazz icon Hilton Schilder, performing with the SU Jazz Band and Maties Jazz Society under the baton of Pascal Haas, with musical direction by Ramon Alexander. Expect a dynamic evening of legacy, innovation, and cultural pride.
Late May: A Choral and Orchestral Double Feature
On Thursday 30 May, celebrated vocal ensemble Voces Cordis, under André van der Merwe, delivers a powerful new programme of local and international choral works.
Then on Friday 31 May, the Winelands Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Reghardt Kühn, presents “Emerging Vintages”—a showcase of young soloists with Sibelius’s Symphony No. 1 as the centrepiece.
Endler Concert Series June Highlight: “Fly Me to the Moon” with SCO
Get ready for a night of big band nostalgia on Saturday 21 June, when the Stellenbosch City Orchestra (SCO) brings swing classics to life in “Fly Me to the Moon”. Conducted by Paul van Zuilenburg and featuring renowned vocalists Lynelle Kenned and Louis Loock, the concert will include timeless hits like “New York, New York” and “My Way”.
“This concert celebrates the music that defined a generation,” says Van Zuilenburg. With only one performance scheduled, early booking is strongly recommended.
A Joyful Finale: Tygerberg Children’s Choir Gala
The First Season of the Endler Concert Series wraps up on a high note on Sunday 22 June with the Tygerberg Children’s Choir Gala Concert, conducted by Karina Erasmus. Recognised internationally as one of the top children’s choirs in the world, this vibrant ensemble will present a rich blend of classical, traditional, and contemporary works—delivering an uplifting conclusion to an exceptional season.
Tickets for all Endler concerts are available via Webtickets.
Watch this space for updates in the Music News category on SA Music Zone.
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