Joe Blog

UP Symphony Orchestras Present:
UPSO Gala Concert 2025: Album Launch
The annual University of Pretoria Orchestra Gala Concert takes on a new dimension this year, presenting South African creativity and classical tradition.
The concert begins with compositions that will be included in the orchestra’s debut recording project: a full album of commissioned works by South African composers. This three-year initiative features both experienced and emerging artists and aligns with the orchestra’s goal of promoting local talent. Additionally, these pieces will be performed during the orchestra’s first international tour to Brazil in 2026.
Balancing the new compositions, the second half features one of the cornerstones of the violin repertoire: Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D major. The soloist is Ané van Staden, violinist, lecturer in the Department of Music, and a cornerstone of the orchestra’s own string section. The concert will be conducted by Schalk van der Merwe, resident conductor and artistic director of the University of Pretoria Symphony Orchestra.
The Programme offering:
F. Prinsloo Miracle Tree
B. Burton Tindachalt
M. Pege The Light We Cast
A. Hendriks Life Cycle 2.0
P. Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35
This concert is both a celebration of South African artistry and a launchpad for UPSO’s international journey. Be among the first to hear these powerful new works live, captured in our debut recording and taking South African symphonic music to the world.
Following the concert, join us for a festive cheese-and-wine spread in the glass foyer.
26 October 2025
Musaion
14:00
R250 pp
Queries: upso@up.ac.za or contact zamile.mzizi@up.ac.za