Musicians Jacques du Plessis and Anthony Drake are layering different sounds from SA and the UK into a melodic treat this April.
South African pianist Du Plessis, 37, and British clarinettist Drake, 49, will perform The Clarinet Across Continents: British and South African Works Unite, at the Guild Theatre on April 15.
Presented by Onaipo Productions, Stirling High School head of music and culture Du Plessis is eager for listeners to come to the theatre and relax.
“Traditionally, recitals have generally been quite formal or stiff. We aim to make sure people feel relaxed, they can take a sip of wine without holding their breath.
“We chat, explain the pieces, we laugh, we are there to share the music as opposed to just performing it.
“The whole point is to share what we have been working on,” he said.
The duo will blend South African and British compositions, a concept they came up with last year. They will be playing five works composed for clarinet and piano.
This includes the well-loved Five Bagatelles by UK composer Gerald Finzi to SA compositions that incorporate jazz elements.
“I like to describe it like a trifle, a group of pieces that have nothing in common, they are all completely random like a bunch of ingredients put into one,” Du Plessis said.
“Audiences can expect a relaxed evening with a high-quality interpretation of well-known clarinet music and experience new compositions for the first time.
“Anthony and I met in 2014 when we both performed in an orchestral performance called Magical Mozart. He was a concerto soloist for the performance and it was clear that he was an excellent musician.
“Last year, we finally decided to plan a recital and he was very keen to do a showcase of music from Britain and SA.
“It makes sense considering Anthony is originally from England and is now living here.
“He was very keen to present a mix between British clarinet works and those composed by SA composers.
“It is not often that audiences hear art compositions by SA composers and so it is refreshing to learn and perform these alongside the standard clarinet repertoire written by English composers.
“While the South African compositions draw on many of the European composition traditions, there is a unique way in which they blend classical music, modal music and jazz music.”
Du Plessis said he created informal production company Onaipo Productions — which the show stems from — to promote classical music concerts in East London.
“It’s also largely so music teachers can get together, giving them a platform to perform, and also so that the admin can be taken care of, all they need to focus on is the performance,” he said.
“Anthony is extremely musical and it makes playing together an absolute pleasure.
“He leads from the clarinet and moulds the musical phrases from the first note he plays.
“I know what tempo, what dynamic level and what character he wants to create from that first note, it’s unbelievable.”
Nearly 100 tickets have been sold.
“We are completely overwhelmed by the support we’ve already received,” Du Plessis said.
“These performances are only possible with the support of the East London audiences and we are so grateful to all those who have bought tickets.”
Freelance musician Drake, a member of the Cape Reeds Clarinet Quintet, is the executive director of the Incopho Development Project NPO of music education for children.
“The clarinet, for me, is more than an instrument; it’s a voice. Its versatility allows it to navigate a wide array of genres and evoke deeply personal emotions.
“There’s something truly magical about its range, tone and the stories it tells. It’s an honour to share my love for this instrument with others,” he said.
“When it comes to the recital, I don’t have a favourite moment — every piece in the programme holds its own charm.
“The works blend beautiful lyricism, jazz elements and contemporary classical sounds, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and styles.
“It’s a pleasure to be able to perform these compositions, especially mixing British with South African pieces, which speaks to the blending of cultures I’ve experienced in my own journey.
“I’m incredibly excited for the upcoming concert and the opportunity to perform with Jacques, who is both talented and hardworking.
“The rehearsal process has been enlightening — I’ve discovered new ways to practise, which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.
“Jacques has been immensely supportive throughout this demanding programme, making the preparation both rewarding and inspiring.”
- Clarinet Across Continents: British and South African Works Unite at 7pm at the Guild Theatre on April 15. Tickets are available via WhatsApp on 079-496-0354.
Daily Dispatch
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