Although only established in January this year, the Northern Cape Symphony Youth Orchestra (NCSYO) was crowned national champion.
The orchestra competed on 7 and 8 October against well-established orchestras and ensembles from around the country during the Cantamus Symphonia national competition in the George Civic Centre.
Not only was the NCSYO placed first in its category (symphony orchestras), but the orchestra also achieved a first place overall.
An aim of establishing this first-ever symphony orchestra in the Northern Cape was to bring together the best and brightest young musicians in the province. Another aim was the development and training of these youth to grow the music scene.
After less than a year these aims, and more, are being achieved. Apart from being prepared for a national stage, the members experienced the excitement and educational value of a tour to George and to competing nationally.
Also, since the orchestra’s establishment, members had several opportunities for developing their musical skills. Flautist Matlhogonolo Mogotsi was awarded a bursary to attend the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival in July. Calvin de Vos on violin and Sebongile Mafata on trumpet also attended this event.
Amongst others, members also experienced the Free State Symphony Orchestra (FSSO) live in concert at the Sand du Plessis Theatre in Bloemfontein. This trip was significant, as many of the members had never seen a live performance by a professional orchestra. Also, members could observe orchestra etiquette and it formed part of the preparation towards their first-ever tour to take part in a national competition.
The establishing of music hubs in all five districts of the Northern Cape is another vision of the NCSYO and, as planned, the Frances Baard hub opened earlier this year. Two more will be opening in 2024, and the last two in 2025. The focus of the hubs will be music training and attaining formal qualifications.
Upon receiving the national award, the orchestra’s artistic team, Dingaan Chabalala and Nathan Carlo, were congratulated, as well as tutors Tshepo Mosarwe, Sylvester Oliphant, Margot Avis, orchestra coordinator Zoë Carlo, and the NCSYO steering committee led by Rose-Ann Pretorius.
The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra, the premier of the Northern Cape Dr Zamani Saul, and the Northern Cape provincial government were also thanked for their support.
- This week, the first Northern Cape Orchestra Festival takes place in the Northern Cape Theatre in Kimberley. On Thursday, 19 October, at 18:00 the opening ceremony takes place. On Saturday from 14:00 a matinée is presented by the primary school orchestra, and from 19:00 the main concert by the high school and festival orchestra is presented. Purchase tickets at the door or via WhatsApp on 076-353-7793.
