Confluence – Ex multis, unum

The Brass Studio of the Nelson Mandela University Department of Music and Performing Arts presents its semester Lunch Hour Concert on Wednesday, 14 October, from 13:00–14:00 in the South Campus Auditorium. The concert, titled Confluence – Ex multis, unum, celebrates the meeting of individual voices, brass ensembles and choral forces in a shared musical experience. Ex multis, unum — “out of many, one” — reflects the coming together of diverse performers and musical voices.

The concert will feature brass soloists from the studio, including Jean Hubeau’s Sonata for Trumpet, performed by Jamie Todkill; F.J. Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto, performed by Larchanette Afrika; Morceau Symphonique by Alexander Guilmant, performed by Erin Jantjes (trombone); and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Tuba Concerto, performed by Kamvelihle Sanqela. Kobus Buys will accompany the soloists on piano.

The Nelson Mandela University Brass Ensemble, under the direction of Dr George Foster, will perform Joy Webb’s moving Share My Yoke, featuring Tuan Thalla on flugelhorn, as well as a medley of South African classics in Alexander Hitzeroth’s arrangement of Freedom Songs, including Asimbonanga, A Song for Bra Des, Freedom Is Coming and Gimme Hope Jo’anna. The Low Brass will perform the cinematic work Echoes of Valor by John McAllister, written specifically for low-brass ensemble.

Adding to the programme, audiences will hear performances by INGOMA Choir, conducted by Khanyisile Skade; the Nelson Mandela University Choir, conducted by Kobus Buys; and La Strada Choir. The concert culminates in a coming together of brass and voices in Peter Louis van Dijk’s arrangement of J. Bokwe’s Plea from Africa.