Latest news with #KwaZulu-NatalPhilharmonicOrchestra
The Citizen
6 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
St John's College Sixth Form composer's work brought to life by KZN Philharmonic
St John's College Sixth Form composer Kabir Budlender views orchestral music as a vehicle for narrative and cultural representation. His latest A Level composition, Cultural Confluence, was recently selected for the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra's prestigious 2025 New Music Workshop, under the baton of Maestro Chad Hendricks. Read more: Emerging South African music entrepreneurs graduate from Samro programme The opportunity brought Kabir to Durban, and into conversation with professional musicians, fellow composers, and the conductor in an open, collaborative setting at The Playhouse Company. 'As an aspiring composer, being able to hear your musical themes played live is really where the magic of composition happens,' said Kabir, 'and to be able to convey these distinct musical traditions and narratives has been an absolutely transformative experience. I am so thankful to my composition mentor, Mr Liebenberg and my peer, Michael Jeong, in helping me realise my vision for this composition.' He added that he looked forward to continuing to refine his craft and hoped to perform this composition, and many more, in the future. The workshop process was more than a rehearsal; it was a chance to learn through direct engagement, as Kabir received feedback on both technical and interpretive aspects of his work, evolving the piece. The dialogue between composer and orchestra deepened his understanding of how written music translates to performance, shaping his final A Level submission, and opening possibilities for future performances. Cultural Confluence is an eight-minute programmatic suite in three movements, drawing on folk tales and musical traditions from South Africa, China, and North America. Each section weaves a distinct narrative through themes that echo the musical idioms of each region. The St John's College Sixth Form composer's work explores how composition can be a form of storytelling, which connects different cultures and traditions through music. Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
TimesLIVE
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
‘Coppélia' ballet thrills Durban audience
The ballet Coppélia thrilled the audience at the Durban Playhouse on Saturday. The show tells a sweet story about love, fun and magic that everyone can enjoy. Presented by The Playhouse Company, the performance features the talented Cape Town City Ballet, with music by the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra. Kirstél Paterson stars as the lively Swanhilda, Jordan Roelfze plays the charming Franz and Leusson Muniz is Dr Coppélius, the quirky inventor. Conductor Brandon Phillips led the orchestra, adding beautiful music and feeling to every scene. Hannah Ward appeared as Prayer. In some shows, Maryana Pobuta played Swanhilda, Axton Green was Franz, and Caitlin Smith took on Prayer. Coppélia mixes classic dance with humour and emotion, making it a joyful live show. Set in a busy European village, the ballet tells a story about mistaken identity, young love and a lifelike doll causing playful trouble. Full of humour and heart, Coppélia continues to charm audiences of all ages with its magical story and classic style.
IOL News
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Experience the magic of dance and comedy at Durban's upcoming arts events
Durban is set to be a vibrant hotspot for the arts with two exhilarating productions sure to captivate audiences of all ages. "Coppélia" Featuring the Cape Town City Ballet in collaboration with the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra, this production promises to charm families and seasoned dance enthusiasts. The story steeped in mischief and magic and revolves around the youthful exuberance of Franz, who finds himself torn between his fiancée, Swanilda and the mysterious doll-maker, Dr. Coppelius, who has crafted a life-like doll named Coppélia. The ballet unfolds as a tale of love, jealousy and the quest for identity, weaving together poignant moments and comedic interludes that highlight the richness of human emotion. This production is ideal for both families looking for an engaging cultural experience and lovers of the ballet seeking a heartfelt narrative. Where: Playhouse Opera Theatre, Durban central. When: Saturday, May 31 at 2pm and 7pm. Upcoming:
