MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Excellence is not a word that should be overused, but it definitely applies to the standard of the Garden Route's own un-symphony orchestra, Carpe Musicam!
This group of 50 or so part-time musicians delivered a performance of movie music at Laminin Agora Celebration Venue on Sunday, 19 June, of absolute top quality.
From deceptively simple delights such as Winter Light – hauntingly played by soloists Cherith Bain (violin) and Hillie de Winnaar (cello), to the full-throated, poly-rhythmic and interestingly dissonant music of John Williams' ET and Star Wars, the players rose to - and conquered - each challenge in a delightfully joyful and refreshing way."
The mandolin trio added a twinkly touch to the Godfather Suite and the extended piccolo solo from Chocolat was unusual and took serious breath control on this tricky instrument.
Of special interest was the "pre-performance" by Carpe Musicam!'s Youth Ensemble. This self-standing group of ten young people - some of whom play in the orchestra - provided pleasing and enjoyable light music before the concert proper.
The flute and violin duet passages by Nadia Meintjies and eight-year-old Mossel Bay violinist Neal Burger added a poignant touch to the quieter moments of the selection from Pirates of the Caribbean.
This local group is a must-see and hear for anyone who enjoys light music performed live by a 50-piece orchestra.
The next performance, at Laminin Agora on 25 September at 15:30, is entitled Potpourri. As the name suggests, it contains a wide variety of popular and light music, performed by both the orchestra and the 40-voice Carpe Musicam! Choir.
Keep an eye on the local press and the Carpe Musicam! website (www.carpemusicam.co.za) for more information.
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