This December, the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra embarks on its most ambitious national tour to date, a vibrant celebration of South African artistry that intertwines with a rich global repertoire. Titled “Voices of Home,” this tour promises to be more than just a series of concerts; it is a heartfelt tribute to the cultural tapestry of South Africa, resonating with pride and passion.
The cities of Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town will serve as stages for an extraordinary convergence of musical legends. The internationally celebrated conductor Marin Alsop will grace the podium, leading a dynamic collaboration with South African cello virtuoso Abel Selaocoe and master percussionist Bernhard Schimpelsberger. Together, they will create a powerful performance that not only bridges geographical divides but also honors the deep-rooted heritage of South Africa.
At the core of this remarkable program lies the South African tour debut of Selaocoe’s “Four Spirits Cello Concerto,” a work that encapsulates the essence of his journey through music, paired with Rachmaninov’s Symphony No. 2. This romantic masterpiece, famed for its sweeping melodies, promises to take audiences on an emotional odyssey, evoking the very spirit of home.
A Celebration of South Africa’s Rising Voice
Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the Mzansi Philharmonic, encapsulates the mission of this tour: “Voices of Home is not another concert tour. It is a national celebration to bring South Africans together. From historic echoes to contemporary creation, the tour is a tribute to the excellence of music, heritage, and the dynamic cultural momentum of South Africa.” This statement underscores the orchestra’s commitment to fostering a sense of unity and pride through the power of music.
Marin Alsop, one of the most esteemed conductors of our time, expressed her enthusiasm for this meaningful tour: “I’m incredibly excited to join Mzansi Philharmonic for this meaningful and dynamic tour. Abel Selaocoe is one of the most original voices in classical music today. He is passionate, fearless, and deeply connected to home. This tour celebrates what is possible when tradition meets innovation.” Her words highlight the unique fusion of traditional South African elements with contemporary orchestral music, a hallmark of Selaocoe’s artistry.
Reflecting on his work, Selaocoe shared, “Four Spirits was born from the stories and sounds that shaped me; memory, joy, rhythm, resistance, and celebration. To bring this work to audiences across South Africa with the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra is a deep honour. It feels like bringing the music home.” His compositions, deeply rooted in South African heritage, play a pivotal role in the narrative of “Voices of Home,” making him an emblematic figure of this celebration.
Redefining the Boundaries of Classical Music
The “Voices of Home” tour embodies the Mzansi Philharmonic’s vital mandate: to expand access to orchestral music across South Africa while highlighting the country’s finest musical talents. Each performance reinforces the orchestra’s dedication to becoming a proudly South African entity, balancing global standards with a profound commitment to heritage and community impact.
In addition to the main concerts, the Mzansi Philharmonic will engage in special community upliftment activities, including intimate performances at hospitals in each city. These initiatives reflect the orchestra’s ongoing pledge to broaden access to orchestral music and to share its transformative healing power with diverse audiences, further enriching the cultural landscape of South Africa.
As the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra embarks on this landmark tour, it invites audiences to experience a unique blend of tradition and innovation, a celebration of unity through music that resonates long after the final note has been played. The “Voices of Home” tour is not just an event; it is a movement that honors the past while forging a vibrant future for South African music.
Tour Dates and Venues:
• Johannesburg – Linder Auditorium | 19:30 | 10 & 11 December
• Durban – Playhouse Opera Theatre | 15:00 | 13 December
• Cape Town – Cape Town City Hall | 18:00 | 16 December
Tickets are available now via Quicket.