Johannesburg Philharmonic orchestra re-launch
Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra has re-launched. It marked the occasion this morning by opening the trading session on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. Bongani Tembe, CEO & Artistic Director of the JPO joins CNBC Africa for more.
Wed, 16 Aug 2017 07:44:36 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- The JPO aims to affirm the value of music in uniting diverse audiences and expand its reach to young people.
- Government support plays a crucial role in promoting classical music in South Africa and preserving local musical traditions.
- Efforts are underway to collaborate with composers and create works that celebrate South African culture, but more support is needed to nurture talent in classical music composition.
The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra has re-launched with a new vision and expanded mandate, aiming to affirm the value and power of music in bringing people together of all races and ages. Bongani Tembe, the CEO and Artistic Director of the JPO, recently appeared on CNBC Africa to discuss the orchestra's relaunch and its goals for the future. Tembe highlighted the orchestra's commitment to integrating music into the learning experience of young people and attracting a more diverse audience to classical music concerts.
Tembe emphasized that classical music is doing well in South Africa, with most concerts being sold out and increasing attendance from young people. The JPO aims to support a variety of genres, including opera and ballet, which sets it apart as a unique and fantastic entity. Despite competition from for-profit organizations, Tembe expressed confidence in the orchestra's ability to stand out.
When discussing the position of classical music in South Africa, Tembe underscored the importance of preserving local music through training composers to compose in the international language of staff notation. He stressed the need for resources and energy to ensure that South African music is not lost to oral traditions and is accessible for future generations. As the CEO of the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra, Tembe also mentioned the significant government support received to promote classical music.
In terms of nurturing talent, Tembe mentioned ongoing efforts to work with composers and expand the repertoire for orchestral performances. He cited collaborations with artists like Pélé Lâné-Mê-Nomiea to create works that celebrate South African culture and history. Despite progress, Tembe acknowledged that more support is needed to encourage new artists to explore classical music composition.
Reflecting on past financial challenges that led to the JPO entering business rescue, Tembe assured that those issues have been resolved, and the orchestra now has the support of the city, sponsors, and organizations to move forward confidently. With a renewed sense of purpose and backing, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is poised to make a vibrant comeback in the music scene.