The Aleit Group presents an extraordinary evening of musical innovation on 25 May at the Endler Hall in Stellenbosch. Two incredible twentieth-century works for strings, The Protecting Veil (by English composer, John Tavener) and The New Four Seasons – Vivaldi Recomposed (Max Richter) will be performed by The Flat Mountain Project ensemble, with highly-acclaimed players Annien Shaw on violin and Babette Roosenschoon on cello.
This classical music concert will be led by conductor and founder of The Aleit Group, Hans Roosenschoon. Here’s all you need to know about this special concert.
John Tavener’s The Protecting Veil – Section One
This late 20th-century work, released in 1988, was shortlisted for a Mercury Prize in 1992. Expressing his Russian Orthodox faith like many of his other works, it’s inspired by a series of eight Orthodox feasts commemorating an apparition of Mary. Written for cello and orchestra, it is a haunting, atmospheric, and in parts ecstatic work with layers of sadness and wonder.
The opening pays homage to her cosmic beauty, the veil and the rising figure.
Max Richter New Four Seasons
Contemporary classical composer Max Richter’s work is a complete recomposition and reinterpretation of Vivaldi’s violin concertos The Four Seasons. While much of the original was discarded, many spine-tingling original themes repeat on a variety of loops. The piece is postmodern, minimalist, extremely dramatic, and beautiful to listen to. The album topped the iTunes classical chart in the US, the UK, and Germany after its release in 2012. Richter released a new version including synthesizers, in 2022.
Meet the performers
Babette Roosenschoon – Soloist (Cello)
Dr Babette Roosenschoon takes the solo in The Protecting Veil. The highly accomplished cellist has played all across Europe, the USA and South Africa, alongside greats such as Joshua Bell, Andrea Bocelli, Sarah Chang, and others. She holds a Masters in cello performance, and also holds a permanent position with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra for eight years
Annien Shaw – Soloist (Violin)
Dr Annien Shaw is a soloist, chamber musician, baroque violinist, teacher and lecturer. She holds a PhD in Performance Practice from the University of Cape Town, a PGDip and FRSM in solo performance from the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, and a Masters in Chamber Music from the University of Stellenbosch.
As well as being employed with the Jeunesses Musicales World Orchestra, KZN Philharmonic and Cape Town Philharmonic orchestra, she is a founding member of the renowned Juliet String Quartet.
Your conductor for the evening, Hans Roosenschoon
Raised in a Stellenbosch home filled with music, Hans Roosenschoon holds a BMus degree in cello performance and conducts this special event – both on stage and off. He’s conducting the orchestra as well as the entire event, as owner and manager of the Aleit Group. Known for his mindful yet forward-thinking leadership on all fronts, the entrepreneur takes meticulous care in his handling of whatever he’s guiding.
Who is The Aleit Group?
The Aleit Group curates unique events combining design, hospitality and innovation to push the boundaries of traditional gatherings. This esteemed collection of businesses started over two decades ago and has grown into the world-renowned business it is today.
The Aleit Group will be presenting this amazing concert alongside a|CREATE who will provide décor and furniture elements; a|FLORAL will be providing exquisite floral arrangements; DIENS Hospitality will set up their sophisticated bar services; and The Aleit Academy will bring their skilled students as staffing on the night – together producing a smooth-running and captivating event.
Cost: R250pp, book via Webtickets only. Please note that tickets are not available for persons under the age of 13 years.
When: Saturday 25 May. Complimentary wine served from 6pm, concert starts 7.30pm
Where: Endler Hall, Stellenbosch University Konservatorium
Website: thealeitgroup.com
Email: monique@aleit.co.za
Tel: 074 432 6754
Instagram: @aleitevents
Facebook: @aleitevents
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