Symphony orchestra to wow in world’s oldest caves
"Sometimes you need a sense of mystery and excitement to make an outing for the family something really memorable," University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra (UPSO) manager, Zamile Khuzwayo said.
The Sudwala Caves are the oldest in the world, formed some 3 000 million years ago. As a visitor, you can venture 600 metres into the caves and 150 metres underground. You should not feel claustrophobic, however, with the central chamber of the cavern complex being big enough to fit a 500-seat concert hall.
On Saturday evening it will become just that when UPSO will perform together with award-winning guitarist, singer-songwriter and stage artist, Leon Gropp, and highly-acclaimed conductor, Matheu Kieswetter.
It promises to be a treat for the ear and a colour sensation for the eye.
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Gropp is known for being one half of the internationally-successful guitar duo CH2 but also for his unique cross-over, fusion style of music as a solo artist.
Kieswetter is an influential advocate for music education and a champion of new music, having established his own contemporary ensemble, the “Ubuntu Consort” and conducted many premiers including operas, one-act ballets and film scores. He has conducted orchestras across the globe.
“We are playing with a South African sound, even if not all of the music is locally sourced. We urge people to bring the whole family along as it will be something completely different and refreshing,” Khuzwayo said.
We don’t want people to see orchestral music as only for the upper crust of society in an unavailable space. This music is for everyone.”
She said both Gropp and Kieswetter shared history with UPSO which made the event extremely special.
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“But the really special thing is the orchestra consists not only of music students but doctors and engineers and students from other professions in training, and our Believe group offers people without hope the chance to better their circumstances and play in a semi-professional orchestra,” Khuzwayo said.
• You can witness UPSO and Leon Gropp performing with Matheu Kieswetter as conductor at the Sudwala Cave Amphitheatre, R539 Sabie Road, on May 13. The concert starts at 18:00 and tickets cost R100 per person. For bookings, go to www.tixsa.co.za (search “UPSO at Sudwala”). Enquiries: visit upso@up.ac.za, email info@sudwalacaves.co.za or call 012-420-2614 or 083-446-0228.
