The Philharmonia Choir of Cape Town presents St Cecilia Mass

ABOUT

The Philharmonia Choir of Cape Town presents an enthralling concert experience on 08 June 2024, at the City Hall, starting at 19:30. This special evening features a rich selection of choral and orchestral masterpieces, led by conductor Damian Philander and accompanied by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra.

The program opens with Hubert Parry’s "Blest Pair of Sirens" and "I was Glad," works that blend lush harmonies and vigorous energy, celebrating the beauty of human voice and spirit. Following these stirring pieces, the audience will be treated to Franz Schubert’s "Symphony No. 8 in B Minor," commonly known as "The Unfinished Symphony," a piece renowned for its hauntingly beautiful melodies and profound emotional depth.

After a 30-minute interval, the concert will culminate with Charles Gounod’s "Messe Solennelle in G Major," also known as the St. Cecilia Mass. This work is a tribute to the patron saint of music, combining lyrical beauty and dramatic intensity in a profound liturgical expression.

The evening will showcase the exceptional talents of soloists Ondelwa Martins (soprano), Sakhumzi Martins (tenor), and Thato Machona (bass), whose performances promise to bring these timeless compositions to life with vigour and passion. Join us for a memorable night of music that promises to inspire and transport all who attend.

DATE: 08 June 2024

VENUE: Cape Town City Hall

START TIME: 19:30

ORCHESTRA: CPO

CONDUCTOR: Damian Philander

SOLOISTS:

Soprano – ONDELWA MARTINS

Tenor- SAKHUMZI MARTINS

Bass – THATO MACHONA

PROGRAMME:

I was Glad – C. Hubert H. Parry

Symphony number 8 in B Minor (The unfinished) – Schubert

Blest Pair of Sirens  – C. Hubert H. Parry

Interval (30 Minutes)

Messe Solennelle in G Major (St Cecelia Mass) – Charles Gounod