Joe Blog

Echoes of the Heart is a mini-festival of music by Postgraduate Music Performance students: 1 live show and 2 sets of 3 narrative music videos.

1 ticket gets you into all 3 events!

Saturday 9 November 16:00 - Live Show

Once upon a time, there lived a bright-eyed soul named Cloude. Their heart shone brightly, filled with a beaming love for their loved ones - until one day it cracked.Cloude suddenly loses someone they cherished deeply, along with their reason to continue. In their grief, they are drawn to the siren song of the ocean and surrender to their sorrows.

As they drown in despair, Cloude awakens in Pelo ya Lewatle (The Heart of the Sea), surrounded by complete darkness. In this realm, they embark on a journey through loneliness and grief, searching for meaning in life and love. In the depths of darkness, Cloude discovers a glimmer of hope within their heart. Realizing that the light inside them can guide them to uncover the beauty hidden in dark.

This is a tale of grief, love, and self-discovery, explored through a metaphorical journey as told in the album Glow in the Dark Naledi. The narrative delves into finding beauty within darkness by following one’s heart.

Saturday 9 November 18:00 - Narrative Music Videos

Have you ever experienced a heartbreak that turned your world upside down? Like falling into a deep, foreign place or being caught in a tornado of emotions? It can feel like a bad dream, but remember—time is always the best healer. Just follow the yellow brick LANE on your journey to recovery.

As you navigate this path, Lane symbolizes that moment of heartbreak, marking the beginning of your journey toward healing and self-discovery.

In this adventure, you’ll embrace CHANGE, finding confidence within yourself as you confront the challenges life throws your way.

Yet, there will be times when the MIST OF DOUBT clouds your vision, reminding you that before you can love someone else, you must first find love within yourself.

As you make your way through this enchanting tale, you’ll realize that no matter how tumultuous the journey may seem, there’s always a light waiting to guide you home. Join AVELÄ for a magical experience that reminds us: every journey leads us closer to our own Emerald City.

Saturday 9 November 18:45 - Music Videos

PHASES is a music video project that explores the emotional journey of grief by navigating through its five stages of grief. Each stage is represented through powerful visuals, and heartfelt performances, illustrating the internal struggles and transformations that accompany loss. This narrative is based on firsthand experience as I navigate the terrifying landscape of grief after the passing of one of my closest cousins. The project consists of three music videos.

Phase 1, titled ‘Time Hurts’, explores the first two stages of grief, denial and anger. Phase 2, titled ‘Unhealthy Habits’, explores the third and fourth stages of grief which are bargaining and depression. Phase 3, titled ‘Ilanga’, explores the final stage of grief which is acceptance.

As I confront each stage, the visuals shift dramatically, beginning with moments of isolation, sadness and reflection. Then, the visuals gradually shifts into a cold environment, exploring scenes of darkness and depression. Finally, the visuals start introducing a serene, uplifting moment of acceptance. This symbolizes the start of healing, remembrance and realising that healing starts from within.

This project, however, is not just a representation of grief but a heartfelt dedication to my cousin. It serves as a reminder of love that transcends loss, encouraging viewers to honor their memories whilst navigating their own journeys. Through evocative music and stunning imagery, PHASES seeks to connect with anyone who has experienced loss, illustrating that while grief is a deeply personal experience, it also unites us in our shared community. Essentially, the project conveys a message of resilience and hope. Affirming that even in our darkest moments, there is a path towards acceptance and peace.