Renowned Swiss conductor Emmanuel SiffertPic: Supplied
The much-anticipated 2024 Summer Season of the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra is set to enchant music lovers with a stellar line-up of both international and local talents.
Performances will take place at The Playhouse Opera Theatre every Thursday, from today, February 29 and until Human RIghts Day, March 21. The World Symphony Series concerts, a highlight of the season, will kick off promptly at 7pm.
Conductor extraordinaire Emmanuel Siffert, hailing from Switzerland, will command the stage on March 7, leading the orchestra into a neo-baroque exploration with Ravel's enchanting Le Tombeau de Couperin (Memorial to Couperin). Originally a piano suite, Ravel's orchestral rendition skilfully captures the essence of a Baroque French keyboard suite, inviting the audience into a realm of expressive dances.
Taking centrestage is the German virtuoso pianist Jan Jiracek von Arnim, showcasing his mastery in a performance of Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 in A Major, widely regarded as the epitome of its genre. The evening crescendos to a close with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2, affectionately known as The Little Russian.
The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra will have a complimentary bus service for residents from different parts of Durban. Booking for the free bus service is essential and can be done by emailing info@kznphil.org.za or calling 031 369 9438.
While the Playhouse Coffee Shop is temporarily closed, the Playhouse bar is once again operational, offering pre-concert and interval drinks. Concert-goers have the option to pre-order interval drinks upon arrival.
For those intrigued by the behind-the-scenes magic, the public is invited to witness the final rehearsal every Thursday morning at 10am in the Playhouse Opera. Tickets are priced at R50 for adults throughout, with unreserved seating available in the downstairs stalls.
Tickets for the KZN Philharmonic Season can be booked through the KZN Philharmonic Office at 031 369 9438 or via email at info@kznphil.org.za
For individual concert bookings, Quicket outlets are available. Additional information is accessible by calling 031 369 9438, emailing info@kznphil.org.za, or visiting www.kznphil.org.za