Music lovers were treated to an afternoon of passion, emotion and world-class vocal artistry when acclaimed South African lyric soprano Sasa Yende presented her Arias of the Heart lunchtime concert at Theatre on the Square in Sandton on July 31.

The performance featured a carefully curated programme of celebrated works by Bellini, Gounod, Menotti, Floyd, Buthelezi and Dvořák, taking the audience on an emotional journey through themes of love, longing, hope and joy.

The concert was warmly received, with Yende’s commanding stage presence and soaring voice leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

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Reflecting on the inspiration behind the programme, Yende said she wanted to present music that would resonate with everyone, regardless of their familiarity with opera.

“Audiences can expect a programme that is heartfelt, expressive and emotionally varied. The repertoire takes listeners on a journey through love, longing, hope, joy and reflection. It includes beloved operatic favourites alongside art songs, creating a programme that is both internationally recognised and proudly rooted in our own musical heritage. I wanted to present music that speaks directly to the heart, regardless of whether someone is an opera enthusiast or experiencing the genre for the first time.”

Yende’s love for music began in church and through choral singing, where she first discovered the ability of the human voice to comfort, inspire and tell stories.

“Opera became a natural calling because it combines everything I love, which is music, language, drama and emotional expression. Over the years I have had the privilege of refining my craft through study, competitions and performances, and each opportunity has deepened my commitment to sharing this extraordinary art form with diverse audiences.”

One of the highlights of the programme was Io son l’umile ancella from Cilea’s Adriana Lecouvreur, a piece that holds special significance for the soprano.

“It is a deeply introspective aria that speaks about humility, purpose and my artistic role as a vessel for emotion and storytelling. What touches me the most about this aria is its quiet strength. It reminds me that as artists, we are not the centre of the story, but rather a channel through which something greater is expressed.”

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Although opera is sometimes perceived as inaccessible, Yende hopes performances such as Arias of the Heart will encourage new audiences to embrace the genre.

“You do not need to understand every word or know the stories beforehand. Music communicates emotions that transcend language, and opera is ultimately about our shared human experiences. Allow yourself to listen, feel and be moved. There is truly something for everyone,” she said.

Yende said one of the defining moments of her career was performing with the 10 South African Sopranos at Durban’s Playhouse Company in 2023, an experience she says positively changed the trajectory of her career.

Looking ahead, she hopes to continue making opera more accessible while championing South African composers and inspiring the next generation of performers.

“I hope to contribute by making opera more accessible and representative of all South Africans. Through performances, outreach and thoughtful programming, I want to help break down the perception that opera is only for a select audience,” she said.

As the final notes echoed through the theatre and the audience responded with enthusiastic applause, Yende said her greatest wish had been fulfilled.

“My greatest hope is that audiences leave feeling uplifted, inspired and emotionally connected. If someone walks away having discovered a new appreciation for opera, or simply feeling comforted, encouraged or moved by the music, then I will consider the concert a success.

Arias of the Heart is an invitation to pause, reflect and experience the beauty of music that speaks across cultures and generations.”

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