The Philharmonia Choir of Cape Town is doing two concert performances of Carmina Burana at the Cape Town City Hall on 9 and 10 June 2023.
German composer Carl Orff’s majestic and powerful choral work has captivated audiences for decades. The sheer magnitude of Carmina Burana is awe-inspiring, using imaginative orchestral and choral forces to create a rich and immersive musical experience.
Orff’s composition skilfully combines elements of classical, folk, and medieval music to create a unique and compelling sound that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.
All about Carmina Burana
Composed between 1935 and 1936, the work draws inspiration from a collection of medieval poems written in Latin, Middle High German, and Old Provençal text, known as the Carmina Burana manuscripts.
These manuscripts were discovered in a monastery in Bavaria, Germany, and brought to life through dynamic melodies, captivating rhythms, and evocative lyrics.
Music fans across genres are familiar with the bold and dramatic opening movement, ‘O Fortuna,’ which has become one of the most recognisable and iconic pieces of classical music. It’s the driving rhythms and sweeping melodies that set the tone for the rest of the piece, which spans a wide range of emotions, from joyous celebration to tender intimacy to passionate longing.
Part of what makes Carmina Burana such a timeless and universal work is Orff’s ability to present an accurate reflection of the human condition rather than an aspirational spiritual work. The witty lyrics touch on themes of love, fate, fortune, and the transient nature of life.
Conductor: Richard Haigh
Soloists
Soprano: Elizabeth Catharina
Tenor: Willem Bester
Bass: William Berger
Percussion Ensemble: ERGONOMIX Percussion Ensemble, directed by Frank Mallows
Pianists: Sandra Kettle-Loubser and Francois du Toit
Please note
Secure and guarded parking is available ONLY on the Grand Parade, at the City Hall end. Guests in wheelchairs can enjoy access to City Hall and Stalls (downstairs) – there is no disabled access to Balcony and Bays (upstairs).
When: Friday, 9 June & Saturday, 10 June at 8pm
Where: Cape Town City Hall, Darling Street, Cape Town City Centre
Cost: R290pp, book via Quicket
Email: [email protected]
Instagram:@philchoircapetown
Facebook: @ThePhilharmoniaChoirOfCapeTown