The melody stopped, but the music continues
Mr Butt’s passing is not simply the loss of a remarkable talent, but a mentor, friend and man who was enormously respected for his dedication and passion for music. Although the voice of legend has been silenced, Mr Butt’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Gut-wrenching tributes flooded social media as news broke of Walter Edward Butt’s passing on August 30.
Succumbing to his disease shortly after being diagnosed, Mr Butt is remembered for his remarkable ability to steer any choir in the direction of success, accepting nothing less than the best.
Mr Butt’s achievements are proof that passion pays off in the end. Although he performed on many a stage, he often expressed how Ferrum High School was where he wanted to spend his time in the foreseeable future. Excelling as a member of the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir from the age of 14, treble soloist and young conductor, Mr Butt received numerous scholarship offers and won several music competitions.
Mr Butt furthered his studies in London and at the University of Vienna after graduating from Wits University. Mr Butt later performed on the Austrian television show Stars of Tomorrow. Further instilling his presence in the music business, Mr Butt took to the stage as a singer and conductor with Wiener Kammeroper, Salzburg Festival, Vienna Philharmonic and the Austrian Broadcasting Orchestra and Choir.
Upon his return to South Africa, Mr Butt sang and conducted for Cape Town Opera, Cape Philharmonic, Durban Chamber, SABC and the Natal Playhouse Indaba during the Grahamstown Festival to name a few. He later lectured and directed the University of Natal Opera House launch in the Natal Playhouse, continuing on to tutor at Wits University. Consulting for choirs like the National Youth Choir and the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir, Mr Butt managed to find time to found a performing acts company called dlalaqala.
Ferrum High School’s choir set a high standard through Mr Butt’s guidance. With accolades such as gold at the ATKV-Applous 2011 Streekfees and silver at the ATKV-Applous 2013 Streekfees, the choir will continue on its path to greatness in honour of Mr Butt.
Organising choir festivals and events was Mr Butt’s forte. With the final arrangements to Flamenco being made, it was with great sadness Ferrum High School reported the event had been postponed until further notice.
Although his dream of expanding Ferrum’s music department will be forever unfulfilled, Mr Butt will be admired and remembered for his firm belief in giving pupils the opportunity to expand and flourish in their God-given musical talent.
Mr Butt’s passing is not simply the loss of a remarkable talent, but a mentor, friend and man who was enormously respected for his dedication and passion for music. Although the voice of legend has been silenced, Mr Butt’s memory lives on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held for Walter Butt at Ferrum High School on Friday, September 12 at 3pm. The Newcastle Advertiser passes our condolences to family, friends and pupils. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time.
