Thank you to every musician, composer, and collaborator for a fantastic first symposium. In particular, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude towards the Endler Concert Series and support staff of the Department of Music, Manual Jardine, Stellenbosch University, and Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra for financial, institutional, and logistical support.
Together with the Songmakers' Guild, SA Strings Foundation, Cape Town Baroque, The Ploemies, SU Jazz Band, Maties Jazz Society, Flat Mountain Project, Ncebakazi and the African Music Division, Mario Nell, and over 40 living composers, we were able to present 18 events, 2 national competitions, album recordings, lecture demonstrations, installations, laboratories, and the launch of the Flat Mountain Publishing House. It was a tremendously creative week of music making.
Together with the Songmakers' Guild, SA Strings Foundation, Cape Town Baroque, The Ploemies, SU Jazz Band, Maties Jazz Society, Flat Mountain Project, Ncebakazi and the African Music Division, Mario Nell, and over 40 living composers, we were able to present 18 events, 2 national competitions, album recordings, lecture demonstrations, installations, laboratories, and the launch of the Flat Mountain Publishing House. It was a tremendously creative week of music making.
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Flat Mountain Publishers: Launch discussion
Thursday 21 September 2023 | 18:00 Behrens foyer
The Flat Mountain Project encompasses numerous subprojects, including performance, curatorship, recording, and publishing. Annien Shaw, Babette Roosenschoon, Arthur Feder and Antoni Schonken joined in a discussion surrounding the need for improved access to sheet music by South African composers, technical, legal and ethical considerations, as well as the potential impacts of a music publishing house that caters exclusively to the needs of South African composers. Attendees, which included composers as well as industry professionals, had the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback on a collection of printed exemplars.
The Flat Mountain Project encompasses numerous subprojects, including performance, curatorship, recording, and publishing. Annien Shaw, Babette Roosenschoon, Arthur Feder and Antoni Schonken joined in a discussion surrounding the need for improved access to sheet music by South African composers, technical, legal and ethical considerations, as well as the potential impacts of a music publishing house that caters exclusively to the needs of South African composers. Attendees, which included composers as well as industry professionals, had the opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback on a collection of printed exemplars.
Rhythms of our Nation: A tribute to South African Jazz Composers
Monday 18 September 2023 | 19:30 Endler hall
The Stellenbosch University Jazz Band, conducted by Felicia Lesch, celebrated the rich tapestry of South African Jazz with an enchanting evening of music. The audience experienced the harmonies and rhythms that emanate from the streets of Cape Town, such as “Wesley Street” by Errol Dyers, “Anneke Tossouw,” by trumpeter Marcus Wyatt, and “Timeless”, a tribute to the late, great Ms Gloria Bosman. This concert was a musical journey through the works of renowned South African composers who have left an indelible mark on the landscape of jazz, showcasing their unique styles and contributions. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to soulful melodies and swinging tunes, the audience experienced the magic of South African Jazz. Vocal students Jodie Cedras and Nico Miso were also featured in the programme, which was opened by the SUN quintet playing a few sets. The Stellenbosch University Jazz Band delivered a superb performance, showcasing their talent and passion for South African Jazz. The audience was captivated by the music, and the concert was a resounding success.
The Stellenbosch University Jazz Band, conducted by Felicia Lesch, celebrated the rich tapestry of South African Jazz with an enchanting evening of music. The audience experienced the harmonies and rhythms that emanate from the streets of Cape Town, such as “Wesley Street” by Errol Dyers, “Anneke Tossouw,” by trumpeter Marcus Wyatt, and “Timeless”, a tribute to the late, great Ms Gloria Bosman. This concert was a musical journey through the works of renowned South African composers who have left an indelible mark on the landscape of jazz, showcasing their unique styles and contributions. From the vibrant streets of Cape Town to soulful melodies and swinging tunes, the audience experienced the magic of South African Jazz. Vocal students Jodie Cedras and Nico Miso were also featured in the programme, which was opened by the SUN quintet playing a few sets. The Stellenbosch University Jazz Band delivered a superb performance, showcasing their talent and passion for South African Jazz. The audience was captivated by the music, and the concert was a resounding success.
Sonic explorations from South of the Sahara
Monday 18 September 2023 | 18:00 Behrens foyer
What a truly beautiful evening of music at the Behrens foyer, with Ncebakazi Mnukwana and students of the African Music Division, and guest artist Thokozani Mhlambi. The concert opened with Ncebakazi's mesmerizing uMrhubhe solo, setting the tone for a special evening. The students then joined her for a selection of uHadi works from various origins, including music by Madosini. The music was both beautiful and moving, and the students' performances were outstanding.
In the second half of the concert, Ncebakazi and Thokozani joined the stage for an intimate selection of music for baroque cello and other instruments. Their performance was exquisite, and the chemistry between the two musicians create an intensely creative dialogue. The audience was captivated by their music.
This concert was the perfect opening to the South African Composers' Symposium, and it was a reminder of the power of music to bring people together. Thank you to Ncebakazi, Thokozani, and the students of the African Music Division for sharing their gift of music with us.
What a truly beautiful evening of music at the Behrens foyer, with Ncebakazi Mnukwana and students of the African Music Division, and guest artist Thokozani Mhlambi. The concert opened with Ncebakazi's mesmerizing uMrhubhe solo, setting the tone for a special evening. The students then joined her for a selection of uHadi works from various origins, including music by Madosini. The music was both beautiful and moving, and the students' performances were outstanding.
In the second half of the concert, Ncebakazi and Thokozani joined the stage for an intimate selection of music for baroque cello and other instruments. Their performance was exquisite, and the chemistry between the two musicians create an intensely creative dialogue. The audience was captivated by their music.
This concert was the perfect opening to the South African Composers' Symposium, and it was a reminder of the power of music to bring people together. Thank you to Ncebakazi, Thokozani, and the students of the African Music Division for sharing their gift of music with us.
Overtones with undertones: composing for organ in the 21st century
Monday 18 September 2023 | 16:30 Endler hall
Professor and head of department at the Konservatorium, Mario Nell, presented an overview of the instrumental uniqueness of the pipe organ and a discussion of 21st century compositional trends, reconsidering and transforming their historical, cultural and structural aspects rooted in Eurocentric frameworks. Various socio-cultural, educational and societal aspects entered the discussion, aiming to interrogate legacies and to promote new, more relevant and inclusive perspectives.
Professor and head of department at the Konservatorium, Mario Nell, presented an overview of the instrumental uniqueness of the pipe organ and a discussion of 21st century compositional trends, reconsidering and transforming their historical, cultural and structural aspects rooted in Eurocentric frameworks. Various socio-cultural, educational and societal aspects entered the discussion, aiming to interrogate legacies and to promote new, more relevant and inclusive perspectives.
Undergraduate laboratory
Tuesday 19 September 2023 | 13:10 Behrens foyer
I vital component of creative development and artistic growth is experimentation, and creating spaces where young composers can experiment freely and broadly. This student laboratory provided student composers with an opportunity to combine electronics, installation, improvisation, free performance and composition in the large multi-dimensional space of the Behrens foyer. The laboratory were very well received by an audience of younger music lovers, composers and technicians.
I vital component of creative development and artistic growth is experimentation, and creating spaces where young composers can experiment freely and broadly. This student laboratory provided student composers with an opportunity to combine electronics, installation, improvisation, free performance and composition in the large multi-dimensional space of the Behrens foyer. The laboratory were very well received by an audience of younger music lovers, composers and technicians.
Shadow voices: a sonic exploration of schizophrenia
This installation event intends to create awareness about Schizophrenia and decrease the associated stigmas. An artistic interpretation of a fictional character, Raymond, incorporates a collection of individual experiences with schizophrenia symptomatology, and incorporates the poetry of Dan Hoeweler who writes about his personal experiences with schizophrenia. This installation was created in collaboration with music psychotherapist, Karin Meyer.
Two more installations by Annemie du Plessis and Faiyel in the Behrens foyers provided provided viewers and listeners with insights into the sounds of hyperpop and transmaterial.
Two more installations by Annemie du Plessis and Faiyel in the Behrens foyers provided provided viewers and listeners with insights into the sounds of hyperpop and transmaterial.
Celebrating US
The Maties Jazz society ended day 2 of the 2023 SA Composers' Symposium with a full concert of new, original jazz compositions by the members and performers themselves. Ramon Alexander, jazz pianist and Standard Bank artist of the year winner, opened the concert with an incredible selection of his own music.
Jazz Jam session in the foyer (with a picnic!)
Day three of the symposium ended with a high energy jam session hosted by The Ploemies and Shaun Johannes on bass. After an incredible set of own compositions and local music, students and audience members were invited to join them on stage to have fun. As Shaun said: jam sessions are where you learn to perform, and you can't wait at home until you're a perfect musician. The evening was well supported, enjoyed by all, and energy levels were through the roof!
Blue Gum Gates
Friday 22 September 2023 | 13:10 Behrens foyer
Owen Dalton, Lizé Briel, Micaela Loubser, Kerwin Petrus and Annemie du Plessis presented a 20-minute work for various instruments made of wood, including piano, uhadi, bowl, piccolo, and an electronically enhanced installation instrument constructed of a found structure of Blue Gum roots. Taking its harmonic framework from the duel-fundamental foundation of the uhadi, and its structural impetus from the gating processes which define the output of composer John Adams, this ambitious work explored timbre as structural and melodic device. After their performance, audience members had the opportunity to take part in discussion about the work's origin and aesthetics.
Here is a recording of the performance:
Owen Dalton, Lizé Briel, Micaela Loubser, Kerwin Petrus and Annemie du Plessis presented a 20-minute work for various instruments made of wood, including piano, uhadi, bowl, piccolo, and an electronically enhanced installation instrument constructed of a found structure of Blue Gum roots. Taking its harmonic framework from the duel-fundamental foundation of the uhadi, and its structural impetus from the gating processes which define the output of composer John Adams, this ambitious work explored timbre as structural and melodic device. After their performance, audience members had the opportunity to take part in discussion about the work's origin and aesthetics.
Here is a recording of the performance:
Songmakers' Guild National Composition Competition
Thursday 21 September 2023 | 19:30 Endler hall
A warm congratulations to the five finalists whose works were selected for the prize-winners' concert of the SMG composition competition:
Jonathan Blair (1st place) for "Winterson"
Morné van der Westhuyzen (1st runner up) for "South African Mythologies"
Pieter Bezuidenhout (2nd runner up) for "Huis van die Dowes"
This year's festival award is given to Lusibalwethu Sesanti for her striking and innovative setting of her own text, "Love Letters to God". The festival award is bestowed on a single artist during the symposium, in special recognition of artistic and creative merit by a young composer. Lusibalwethu receives a commission from the organisers for the next SA Composers' Symposium.
A special word of thanks to the Songmakers' Guild, and the internationally acclaimed artists who executed the final performance to the highest possible artistic standards: Janelle Visagie, Lusibalwethu Sesanti, Magdalene Minnaar, and Bongani Khubeka, and José Dias.
A warm congratulations to the five finalists whose works were selected for the prize-winners' concert of the SMG composition competition:
Jonathan Blair (1st place) for "Winterson"
Morné van der Westhuyzen (1st runner up) for "South African Mythologies"
Pieter Bezuidenhout (2nd runner up) for "Huis van die Dowes"
This year's festival award is given to Lusibalwethu Sesanti for her striking and innovative setting of her own text, "Love Letters to God". The festival award is bestowed on a single artist during the symposium, in special recognition of artistic and creative merit by a young composer. Lusibalwethu receives a commission from the organisers for the next SA Composers' Symposium.
A special word of thanks to the Songmakers' Guild, and the internationally acclaimed artists who executed the final performance to the highest possible artistic standards: Janelle Visagie, Lusibalwethu Sesanti, Magdalene Minnaar, and Bongani Khubeka, and José Dias.
SA Strings Foundation National Composition Competition
Friday 22 September 2023 | 16:30 Endler hall
For three days during the SA Composers' Symposium, five innovative new works for string quintet and uhadi were rehearsed and workshopped by Annien Shaw, David Bester, Remi Ludik, Babette Roosenschoon, Mariechen Meyer, Bronwyn Clacherty, Dizu Plaatjies, Thandeka Mfinyongo and Jan-Hendrik Harley, culminating in a powerful and strikingly beautiful final performance. For this competition, the finalists had an opportunity to revise their works and workshop their uhadi notation with professional players.
Congratulations to the five finalists and winners of the competition:
Natali Frenz for "Coalesce"
Reece Rivalland for "Karoovian Rhapsody"
Chesney Palmer for "Murmers from a dystopian future" -- 2nd runner up
Owen Dalton for "Unwavering" -- 1st runner up
Njabulo Phumgula for "Bound Objects" -- 1st place
The five works chosen for the final round were unique, interesting, highly effective, innovative, and refreshingly impactful. The SA Composers' Symposium is proud to have partnered with the SA Strings Foundation to create and launch this competition.
For three days during the SA Composers' Symposium, five innovative new works for string quintet and uhadi were rehearsed and workshopped by Annien Shaw, David Bester, Remi Ludik, Babette Roosenschoon, Mariechen Meyer, Bronwyn Clacherty, Dizu Plaatjies, Thandeka Mfinyongo and Jan-Hendrik Harley, culminating in a powerful and strikingly beautiful final performance. For this competition, the finalists had an opportunity to revise their works and workshop their uhadi notation with professional players.
Congratulations to the five finalists and winners of the competition:
Natali Frenz for "Coalesce"
Reece Rivalland for "Karoovian Rhapsody"
Chesney Palmer for "Murmers from a dystopian future" -- 2nd runner up
Owen Dalton for "Unwavering" -- 1st runner up
Njabulo Phumgula for "Bound Objects" -- 1st place
The five works chosen for the final round were unique, interesting, highly effective, innovative, and refreshingly impactful. The SA Composers' Symposium is proud to have partnered with the SA Strings Foundation to create and launch this competition.
SU Strings Ensemble performing Gideon Fagan
Thursday 21 September 2023 | 13:10 Endler hall
South African composer Gideon Fagan was an important figure in the development of composition in the country. The SU Strings Ensemble gave an exceptional performance of his suite for strings.
South African composer Gideon Fagan was an important figure in the development of composition in the country. The SU Strings Ensemble gave an exceptional performance of his suite for strings.
silent Rage, digital Noise
Thursday 21 September 2023 | 16:30 Fismer hall
An exploration of sound as reactive to the imposition of aesthetic ideals present in a Conservatorium. It is a sonic confrontation of the material conditions inhabitants of the environment face. Through referencing digital archives in which students anonymously deposit confessions (excess energy) we find a myriad of experiences, thoughts and revelations. This confrontational and thought-provoking performance was deftly managed by Liam Jaftha, Faiyel, spityellow! and co. Following the performance, audience members were encouraged to take part in a discussion of institutional challenges faced by students at the SU department of music.
An exploration of sound as reactive to the imposition of aesthetic ideals present in a Conservatorium. It is a sonic confrontation of the material conditions inhabitants of the environment face. Through referencing digital archives in which students anonymously deposit confessions (excess energy) we find a myriad of experiences, thoughts and revelations. This confrontational and thought-provoking performance was deftly managed by Liam Jaftha, Faiyel, spityellow! and co. Following the performance, audience members were encouraged to take part in a discussion of institutional challenges faced by students at the SU department of music.
New music for Old instruments
Friday 22 September 2023 | 19:30 Endler hall
As the symposium drew to a close on Friday evening, it was the greatest privilege possible to hand over the reigns to Erik Dippenaar and Cape Town Baroque for the start of their annual Baroque Festival. This special performance, titled New Music for Old Instruments, focussed on contemporary compositions written for Baroque instruments. The concert included 2 world premieres of works by Arthur Feder (baroque violin and harpsichord) and Antoni Schonken (2 baroque violins and viola da gamba).
As the symposium drew to a close on Friday evening, it was the greatest privilege possible to hand over the reigns to Erik Dippenaar and Cape Town Baroque for the start of their annual Baroque Festival. This special performance, titled New Music for Old Instruments, focussed on contemporary compositions written for Baroque instruments. The concert included 2 world premieres of works by Arthur Feder (baroque violin and harpsichord) and Antoni Schonken (2 baroque violins and viola da gamba).
