NORTHLANDS BOWLING CLUB
50 Margaret Mayton Ave, Durban North

In Association with The Rhumbelow Theatre
& The Durban City Orchestra

 Presents

SPRING CLASSICAL CONCERT
Durban City Orchestra

SUNDAY 20 OCOTBER 2024  Show starts 15.00
(Venue opens 90 minutes before show for snacks/drinks)

“Spring: the music of open windows.”

Durban City Orchestra

presents

Spring Classical Concert
St Thomas Church, Musgrave: Sun 13 Oct at 3pm
Northlands Bowling Club: Sun 20 Oct at 3pm

Haydn, Beethoven, Mozart and more

Music-lovers are invited to an intimate afternoon concert in the company of the Durban City Orchestra (DCO) as they perform a magnificent spring-inspired programme of Haydn, Beethoven, Mozart and more, at two different concerts: St Thomas Church, Musgrave on Sunday 13 October at 3pm and Northlands Bowling Club on Sunday 20 October at 3pm.

The Durban City Orchestra is repeated the same Spring programme twice – in Musgrave and Durban North.

The orchestra, one of the longest running orchestras in the country, has a complement of approximately 30 active members who get together weekly. The orchestra includes two accomplished professional musicians in Charl van der Merwe as Resident Conductor and Jitske Brien as Concert Master, joined by guest artists.

The programme is a carefully curated programme of always popular classics: 

Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana - a captivating instrumental piece from Pietro Mascagni's one-act opera Cavalleria Rusticana; Carmen Suite No. 1 by Georges Bizet - a brilliant orchestral arrangement that distils the essence of his renowned opera; Beethoven's Ninth Symphony Finale which stands as one of the most iconic and transformative moments in classical music; Symphony No.12 by Mozart - an early work that showcases the young composer's burgeoning talent; Joseph Haydn's Symphony No. 88 - a splendid example of the mature classical style for which he is renowned and O mio babbino caro - a poignant aria from Giacomo Puccini’s 1918 opera Gianni Schicchi.

For both concerts, it is advisable to pre-book tickets, however, unsold tickets are available at the door.

Good to Know:

St Thomas Church

Musgrave Rd, Berea

Tickets:  R180 full price / R150 for pensioners and students

Booking: Through Quicket.

Northlands

Tickets: R200

Booking: Through Webtickets.

Or Roland: roland@stansell.co.za / 082 499 8636

“In spring’s light, every heart finds its song.”

Programme Notes:

Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana

"Intermezzo" is a captivating instrumental piece from Pietro Mascagni's one-act opera Cavalleria Rusticana. Premiered in 1890, the opera is a quintessential example of the verismo style, which emphasizes raw, emotional drama and real-life themes. The "Intermezzo" serves as a musical interlude between the intense dramatic scenes of the opera. Characterized by its lush orchestration and lyrical melodies, it offers a moment of respite and reflection. The piece features a sweeping, pastoral quality, with rich string textures and gentle woodwind passages that evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection. Despite its relative brevity, the "Intermezzo" has achieved a life of its own beyond the opera, often performed as a standalone concert piece. Its evocative beauty and emotional depth make it a favorite among orchestras and listeners alike, showcasing Mascagni's ability to convey profound feelings through music.

Carmen Suite No. 1 by Georges Bizet

The Carmen Suite No. 1 by Georges Bizet is a brilliant orchestral arrangement that distills the essence of his renowned opera *Carmen*. Composed in 1875, the opera's evocative score was later adapted into two suites by the composer’s friend and colleague, Ernest Guiraud, to capture its vibrant and dramatic highlights for concert performances. The Carmen Suite No. 1 features a selection of memorable scenes from the opera, including the lively “Aragonaise,” the sultry “Habanera,” and the exuberant “Seguedille.” These pieces exemplify Bizet’s masterful orchestration and his knack for creating infectious rhythms and rich, expressive melodies. The suite vividly portrays the fiery passion and tumultuous drama of the opera’s narrative, celebrating the character of Carmen with its seductive rhythms and bold harmonies. The suite has become a staple in the orchestral repertoire, admired for its vibrant energy and the way it encapsulates the spirit of Bizet’s original work. Its dynamic and colorful orchestration makes it a favorite in concert halls around the world, offering audiences a glimpse into the passionate world of Carmen.

Beethoven's Ninth Symphony Finale

Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, particularly its Finale, stands as one of the most iconic and transformative moments in classical music. Premiered in 1824, this Symphony, often referred to as the "Choral Symphony," culminates in a groundbreaking finale that integrates vocal soloists and a full choir with the orchestra—a novel approach at the time. The Finale is renowned for its setting of Friedrich Schiller's poem "Ode to Joy," which celebrates universal brotherhood and joy. This movement begins with a dramatic and complex orchestral introduction, leading to a powerful and uplifting choral section. The music evolves from a tumultuous and intricate orchestral passage into a triumphant and exuberant declaration of unity and hope. Beethoven’s use of the human voice in the symphony was revolutionary, breaking away from the purely instrumental traditions of previous symphonies. The Finale is a tour de force of thematic development, dynamic contrasts, and emotional depth. Its famous "Ode to Joy" theme, with its anthemic melody and stirring choral climax, has become a universal symbol of celebration and solidarity. The Ninth Symphony’s Finale remains a monumental work, not only for its musical innovation but also for its profound message of human connection and optimism. It continues to inspire and move audiences around the world with its enduring and universal appeal.

Symphony No.12 by Mozart

Mozart's Symphony No. 12 in G major, K. 110, composed in 1771, is an early work that showcases the young composer's burgeoning talent. Written when Mozart was just 15 years old, this symphony is part of a series of symphonies he composed during his formative years, reflecting his evolution as a composer. The Symphony No. 12 is characterized by its lively and bright orchestration, embodying the classical elegance and clarity of Mozart's style. The symphony follows the conventional four-movement structure of the classical symphony: an Allegro, a lyrical Andante, a Menuetto, and a spirited Allegro. Each movement demonstrates Mozart's skillful use of thematic development and orchestral color, though the symphony remains relatively concise compared to his later, more complex works. In particular, the first movement, marked Allegro, features buoyant rhythms and a cheerful theme, while the second movement, Andante, provides a more reflective contrast with its lyrical and flowing melody. The third movement, Menuetto, introduces a dance-like quality, and the final Allegro brings the symphony to a vigorous and energetic close. Symphony No. 12, while less well-known than Mozart’s later symphonies, offers a glimpse into the early development of his symphonic language and his remarkable ability to infuse classical forms with his unique melodic and harmonic sensibilities.

Joseph Haydn's Symphony No. 88

Joseph Haydn's Symphony No. 88 in G major, composed in 1787, is a splendid example of the mature classical style for which he is renowned. This symphony is one of the twelve "Paris" symphonies, commissioned by the Philharmonic Society of Paris and showcasing Haydn’s mastery of orchestral writing and structural innovation. The Symphony No. 88 is characterized by its elegance, charm, and refined craftsmanship. It follows the classical four-movement structure: Allegro, Andante, Menuetto, and Finale. The first movement, marked Allegro, features a buoyant and playful theme, with Haydn’s characteristic wit and inventiveness evident in the development and recapitulation. The second movement, Andante, provides a lyrical contrast, with a gentle and flowing melody that highlights Haydn’s skillful use of harmony and orchestral colour. The Menuetto, the third movement, is a graceful dance with a charming and somewhat rustic quality, typical of Haydn’s approach to this form. The symphony concludes with a spirited Allegro, characterized by its energetic rhythms and joyful themes, bringing the work to a vibrant and uplifting finale. Symphony No. 88 is celebrated for its structural clarity, melodic inventiveness, and the effective use of orchestral colour, all hallmarks of Haydn’s symphonic style. It reflects the composer’s deep understanding of classical form and his ability to blend formal rigor with expressive charm, solidifying his place as a master of the symphonic genre.

O mio babbino caro

“O mio babbino caro” is a poignant aria from Giacomo Puccini’s 1918 opera Gianni Schicchi. Sung by the character Lauretta, it is one of the most beloved arias in the operatic repertoire, renowned for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth. In the aria, Lauretta pleads with her father, Gianni Schicchi, to grant her a personal request. She begs him to help her marry the man she loves, despite his disapproval. The aria is notable for its expressive melody and tender, heartfelt lyrics, which convey both longing and vulnerability. Puccini’s orchestration enhances the aria’s emotional impact, using a rich, delicate accompaniment that underscores Lauretta’s earnest appeal. The melody of “O mio babbino caro” is characterized by its flowing, cantabile lines and memorable, soaring phrases, making it a favourite among audiences and singers alike. Its charm and simplicity, combined with Puccini’s masterful use of the orchestra to highlight the singer’s emotions, ensure that the aria remains a standout moment in Gianni Schicchi and a staple of the soprano repertoire.

Durban’s Top Talent at the Rhumbelow Theatre.

R 200-00 a ticket
Pensioners R 180-00
Northlands Bowling Club members R 160-00

Bring food picnic baskets.

Limited secure parking available    

Booking is essential. 

FULL BAR AVAILABLE (no alcohol may be brought on to the premises)

Cell 0824998636          

BOOKINGS ON EMAIL PLEASE : roland@stansell.co.za  or WEBTICKETS http://events.durbantheatre.com/

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