The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra is set to perform a tribute to the genius of Frédéric Chopin, one of the most beloved composers of all time, at the Playhouse Opera on Thursday, 12 March, starting at 7pm. Dutch Conductor Conrad van Alphen and Bulgarian pianist Ludmil Angelov will join the orchestra for the second and final 2026 Summer Season concert.
Angelov, renowned as a Chopin specialist, will perform two of the Polish master’s early works, Variations on La ci darem la mano and the Grande Polonaise Brillante. These pieces demand ‘high-wire’ keyboard pyrotechnics, married to the ‘bel canto’ tones essential to caress Chopin’s far-flung lyrical flights. As composer, pianist and critic, Robert Schumann, once said, ‘Hats off, the gentleman’s a genius,’ and it is this genius that will be honoured through the performance.
Chopin’s Enduring Legacy
Chopin’s music has stood the test of time, and his compositions continue to inspire and influence musicians around the world. The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance is a testament to the enduring legacy of Chopin’s genius. The evening’s programme will also feature Fauré’s enchanting Masques et bergamasques, which masterfully blends sprightly dance forms with a touch of wistful nostalgia, as well as Beethoven’s Symphony No 2, written in 1801 and 1802.
A Night of Musical Excellence
The concert promises to be a night of musical excellence, with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Conrad van Alphen, delivering a performance that will transport audiences to an elegant, bygone era. With Ludmil Angelov’s mastery of Chopin’s works, the evening is sure to be a memorable one. For more information on the concert, including ticket prices and park and ride options, visit the Quicket website or call 031 369 9438.
The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra’s season forms an intrinsic part of the orchestra’s ongoing school visits, community engagement, and skills transfer programmes, all geared towards reaching out to new-generation artists and audiences alike. Some of the key highlights of the season include:
- Performances by renowned musicians, such as Ludmil Angelov
- Community outreach programmes, aimed at promoting music education and appreciation
- Collaborations with local schools and music institutions
For more information on the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra and its programmes, visit the Wikipedia page on the orchestra.
