Durban Symphonic Choir turns 50
To mark this auspicious occasion, the choir will host a performance a the St Joseph's Cathedral in August.
IT is a very special year in the history of the Durban Symphonic Choir as 50 years ago it was formed at the request of the then Mayor of Durban to undertake major choral works in collaboration with the Durban Symphony Orchestra.
This golden anniversary is indeed cause for celebration as the DSC has become established as one of the South Africa’s prominent large choral groups. Throughout these 50 years, the choir has provided the citizens of the greater Durban area and visitors alike with a high standard of choral tradition under the direction of Dr Ros Conrad. Heather Brandon directed the choir for 21 years and then, after her retirement in December 1987, a committee comprising members of the choir was formed to ensure the continued existence of the choir. In January 1988, Juan Burgers accepted the appointment of directorship. He resigned in 2000 and Dr Ros Conrad took over the reins.
To recognise and acknowledge the contribution the choir has made both in performing and promoting music among the citizens of Durban, there will be a celebration production of Karl Jenkins Requiem with the KwaZulu-Natal Youth Choir, accompanied by the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. This event is on Sunday 14 August from 2.30pm at St Joseph’s Cathedral in Mariannhill.
