“This year’s Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert is an unmissable event, showcasing a unique and beautiful programme, with a few surprises.”
These are the words of well-known musician and conductor Richard Cock. He compiled the programme for the Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert, taking place in Oudtshoorn on Saturday 10 August at 19:00. Joining him on stage are outstanding violinist Samson Diamond and the specially assembled Cape Town Festival Chamber Orchestra.
“I like to make concerts fun and accessible and classical music enthusiasts must be sure not to miss this event. Diamond is a wonderful violinist and plays Mozart’s beautiful ‘Violin Concerto No. 4’. Furthermore, we pay tribute to Gershwin, who composed ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ 100 years ago. A tribute to Beethoven is also included, celebrating 200 years since he composed his ‘Symphony No. 9’”, Cock says.
The first half of the programme is more serious, followed by a second half which includes amongst others music by Gershwin, Brahms, Kreisler, Vaughan Williams and the famous “Gold and Silver Waltz” by Lehár.
“The work by Gershwin was really the first Jazz Concerto and Beethoven’s ‘Ode to Joy’ used a large choir in a performance for the first time. His ‘Ninth Symphony’ is a revolutionary work, unlike anything else in the whole repertoire and we are performing part of it, which is really exciting. There is lots to look forward to on the programme”, he says.
Celebrated musicians have been specially assembled by Cock and Stuart Scott for the Cape Town Festival Chamber Orchestra, which often performs in and around Cape Town. It is the first time performing on stage at Klein Karoo Klassique for this orchestra and many of its members. Cock too says he is very excited to return to Oudtshoorn, as his performance on stage in the Klein Karoo was at the KKNK more than 25 years ago.
“There are a lot of young players in the orchestra and the audience will be amazed by their enthusiasm and their love for playing music”, Cock concludes.
Diamond has performed at Klein Karoo Klassique before, sharing the stage with the Odeion String Quartet – who is also on stage at the festival this year. “I am looking forward to once again sharing beautiful music with the audiences at Klein Karoo Klassique, under the baton of Maestro Richard Cock. Klassique always brings together such a wonderful group of music enthusiasts, and I am excited to showcase Mozart’s ‘Violin Concerto’, along with some lovely short pieces for violin and orchestra. But most importantly, I look forward to connecting with the audience in a meaningful way.”
“The Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert includes something for everyone to enjoy. Maestro Cock is fantastic with audiences, and I thoroughly enjoy working with him. The concert provides classical music enthusiasts with a cultural experience that goes beyond just the music. It allows them to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and artistic expression of classical music, in a unique festival setting in the picturesque town of Oudtshoorn”, Diamond says.
Klein Karoo Klassique is presented in Oudtshoorn from Friday 9 to Sunday 11 August 2024. The festival programme includes a variety of classical music, art, food and wine.
The centre of the festival is the Oudtshoorn Civic Centre and Banqueting Hall, where festivalgoers and artists can take time to relax. Delicious food is served here by Nostalgie Restaurant, whilst wine, coffee and other delicacies are also available. Books, classical music CDs and DVDs are on sale.
This winter festival is presented by the KKNK, made possible by the Rupert Music Foundation and the ATKV, with the support of Le Lude and the Oudtshoorn Municipality.
Aloe Manor, De Zeekoe, Kleinplaas Holiday Resort, Queen’s Hotel by BON Hotels, Ravenscliff Manor, Rosenhof Country House and Turnberry Boutique Hotel are Klassique’s accommodation sponsors. Other accommodation options are available online through the festival’s accommodation partner, LekkeSlaap.
A limited number of Klassique packages are available, which provides an opportunity for festivalgoers to see all ten recitals at a saving of 25%. Tickets are available at Webtickets, Pick n Pay or the KKNK office. Available tickets are also on sale at the door before the start of recitals.
For more information, visit klassique.co.za or contact the KKNK office via email at info@kunste.org.za, phone 044 203 8600 or send a WhatsApp to 065 285 2337.
Photos attached
- Well-known musician and conductor Richard Cock, shares the stage with violinist Samson Diamond and the Cape Town Festival Chamber Orchestra for the Klein Karoo Klassique Gala Concert.
