The World Symphony Series graces the Linder Auditorium stage

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) kickstarted their World Symphony Series with full capacity seating at the Linder Auditorium.

Speaking at the auditorium on August 25, JPO’s artistic manager, Polina Burdukova said the orchestra couldn’t wait to entertain its loyal audience.

“This is the first night with full capacity since the restrictions have been lifted. We never thought our audience would stop coming out to see us, we have a loyal audience and fan base, instead we have a lot of young newcomers which shows an increase in our support.”

An audience member, Kamogelo Molope said she was chuffed to witness an orchestra live for the first time.

“I was invited by one of my friends who is part of the JPO, I am here because I am into music and instruments. I am quite excited to be listening to an orchestra because I’ve never experienced it live.”

Burdukova added special performances included composer Don Laka and and the Tswhane University of Technology (TUT) choir. “The opening night is special because [it includes] Don Laka, a South African jazz composer who composed a piece to commemorate the victims of the KZN floods. We also have a wonderful choir from TUT.”

Artistic director Bongani Tembe added that the programme included a violinist. “On the programme for the evening are Jean Sibelius’s Concerto for violin in D minor, and Antonín Dvo?ák’s Symphony No. 9 in E minor, (From the New World).”

Tembe added, patrons can expect to see multi-award-winning South African pianist Schumann and the massed KZNPO and JPO musicians coming together to weave their magic under the baton of gifted young Indonesian conductor Rebecca Tong.

“The programme of popular favourites selected for this concert includes Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite, from the ballet based on Shakespeare’s tragic masterpiece; as well as George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances.”