Held annually during Youth Month, the prestigious festival provides a platform for emerging classical musicians to showcase their talents at the highest standard, offering many of them their first opportunity to perform as soloists with a professional orchestra.
For the students selected, this was a seismic moment in their budding careers.
Back, from left, George Foster, Njabulo Mthimkhulu, Taryn Booyens, Rudi Bower, David Bester and Etienne Mecloen, front, Amy Elliott (Piano), Lindokuhle Gushu (Soprano), Anele Mutei (Tenor), Sinetlahla Ndala (Soprano) and Courtney Esau (Alto Saxophone). Jeff Latham Photography
Etienne Mecloen, ECPO chairperson, emphasised that the festival underscores the extraordinary talent nurtured in the Eastern Cape and continues to play a vital role in fostering local musicians.
“We are proud to give these young musicians the opportunity to perform on a professional stage, backed by a full orchestra, and to celebrate the future of South African music in such a meaningful way,” he said.
The capacity audience was treated to thrilling performances, with the concerto conducted by Jason Atherton, winner of the 6th South African Conductors Competition.
Representing Nelson Mandela University were Anele Mutei, Amy Elliott, Lindokuhle Gushu, and Sinentlahla Ndala, marking a first professional-level engagement for many, and the start of exciting performance careers.
Amy Elliott and Anele Mutei
The cohort expressed their joy at performing on such a grand stage with a full orchestra, the camaraderie built during rehearsals, and the invaluable lessons gained from Jason Atherton and Classical Voice lecturer, Njabulo Mthimkhulu.
Lindokuhle Gushu, and Sinentlahla Ndala
“This experience reminded me why I chose to pursue music – the joy, passion, and connection that come with performing,” said Sinentlahla, who performed “Stizzoso, mio stizzoso” from Giovanni Battista Pergolesi’s comic opera La serva padrona, a piece brimming with character, wit, and rhythmic energy.
“The rehearsals and the final performance were a reminder of the transformative power of music and the importance of creating spaces that nurture young talent,” added Lindokuhle.
“This experience was not only a celebration of music, but also a reminder of the impact it can have on both the performer and the audience, creating a sense of community and shared appreciation of the arts,” said Anele.
David Bester, senior lecturer in Strings and the Artistic Director of the ECPO, commended the students’ performances and the exceptional standard displayed this year.
Dr Rudi Bower, Head of the Department of Music and Performing Arts, added that the University takes great pride in the recent achievements of its students.
“As a department that pursues excellence, we place high regard on the development of these burgeoning professional musicians. They bear testimony to what can be achieved through talent, hard work, and dedication,” said Dr Bower.
In addition to the outstanding achievements of the students who performed at ECPO, two other exceptional talents from the department were recognised for their accomplishments.
Kamvelihle Sanqela was selected to perform at the Free State Symphony Orchestra Youth Festival on 9 August at the Odeion Auditorium in Bloemfontein, while Chesnay Potberg earned a spot in the final round of the Yamaha Young Soloist Music Competition, held in Johannesburg on 21 June.