East-based opera singer shares her musical journey
Linette van der Merwe will celebrate the 150th anniversary of French composer Bizet’s 'Carmen' this year and will sing in a series of concerts to commemorate the 100 years of the Afrikaans language.
A 54-year-old opera singer from Lukasrand in the east of Pretoria has plans to make waves in the classical music scene with her powerful voice and captivating stage presence.
Linette van der Merwe, born in Polokwane told Rekord her love for music was evident from a young age.
She is gearing up to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Bizet’s Carmen with a series of concerts, including a performance at the Wakkerstroom Music Festival scheduled for March 2025.
“I have also been invited to sing a series of Afrikaans art song concerts to commemorate 100 years since Afrikaans was made an official language.”
Van der Merwe shared that an Afrikaans art song album is also planned to document the rich heritage of Afrikaans classical music.
Her musical journey began in her childhood home, where her mother would play records and sing.
“My mother’s love for music rubbed off on me, and I would often perform for her dolls, teaching and singing to them.
“She was part of an ad hoc operetta company that performed regularly in and around Polokwane.”
She said after matriculating, she moved to Pretoria to study for a BA in Law at the University of Pretoria. Nowadays she works as a lecturer there.
Van der Merwe had vocal studies as a non-degree subject in her third year and later continued her vocal studies with the legendary dramatic soprano, Emma Renzi.
Although she didn’t pursue music as a full-time career initially, she continued to nurture her love for singing.
“I joined the State Theatre Ad Hoc Opera Chorus in the early nineties.”
Her big break came when she met Renzi.
She highlighted that under Renzi’s guidance, she honed her craft, and her unique voice began to gain recognition.
“I have learnt from her to always stand in service of the art form. You can never be bigger or more important than the art form,” stated Van der Merwe.
She has since performed in various productions, including Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro and Cosi fan tutte, as well as Bizet’s Carmen.
As a lecturer at the University of Pretoria, she shared that she is passionate about sharing her knowledge and experience with her students.
She believes music education is essential, and she is committed to helping her students develop their skills and pursue their passions.
Van der Merwe’s dedication to music education extends beyond her work at the university.
She is also the chairperson of the Wakkerstroom Music Festival, which supports the Marimba Community Project.
“This project promotes classical music within the local community of Wakkerstroom, providing opportunities for young musicians to develop their skills.”
Her advice to aspiring musicians is to work hard, be dedicated and be passionate about music.
She believes that with persistence and determination, anyone can achieve their goals and make a name for themselves in the music industry.
Also read: Pretoria-leerders en voorste Gauteng-presteerders wat kop en skouers bo ander uitgestyg het.
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