MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Mossel Bay was treated to an afternoon of music as Carpe Musicam! hosted its latest production, Winter with Carpe Musicam!, at the Curro School Hall on Sunday 12 July.

The concert opened on a cheerful note as the orchestra welcomed the audience with the beloved classic “Winter Wonderland”, immediately setting a warm and festive tone for the afternoon.

Carpe Musicam!’s orchestra and choir contain a remarkable range of performers, from young children to seasoned musicians, creating a dynamic and engaging musical experience. 

The orchestra featured an array of instruments, including trumpets, violins, a drum set and a variety of flutes, all contributing to a full and vibrant sound.

Under the skilled direction of conductor Norman Carless, the performance flowed seamlessly. Carless once again captivated the audience, not only through his precise and expressive conducting, but also with his signature charm.

During one memorable moment, he played the trumpet while conducting with one hand - an impressive display that drew admiration from the audience.

Another highlight was Dmitri Shostakovich’s lively “Tahiti Trot”, a piece first heard in 1928, as well as renditions of familiar favourites such as “Let it Snow” by Vaughn Monroe and “Somewhere in My Memory” by John Williams.

The choir also joined the orchestra for a beautiful performance of “Winter Light” before concluding on a nostalgic note with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”.

Norman Carless conducts the orchestra during one of the musical pieces they performed. Photo: Gustav Snyman

Special thanks must be given to Elsabe Barkhuizen, the pianist and organiser of the evening, whose dedication ensured the event ran smoothly.

Mossel Bay can look forward to Carpe Musicam!’s next production, Magnificent Movie Music, at the Mossel Bay Town Hall on 11 October, featuring the Concert Orchestra and Choir. 

Tickets are available at carpemusicam.co.za.

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