Classical Music: Opera Favourites
6 October, 17:00
Endler Hall, Conservatorium
Soprano, Lynelle Kenned, and baritone, William Berger, performed some of the most well-known arias on 6 October for the final day of Woordfees 2024. PHOTO: Supplied/Mark Cloete
As the annual Stellenbosch Woordfees came to an end on 6 October, festival-goers flocked to the Endler Hall to enjoy a truly breathtaking one-night-only performance of Opera Favourites, directed and accompanied by renowned pianist Elna van der Merwe.
Musicians, clad in formal black attire, entered the stage. Nine of the ten musicians took their place standing around the piano, clutching bowstrings, while Van der Merwe took a seat in front of the black and white keys.
Then, in a sparkly red gown that would make the queen’s jewels look dull, soprano Lynelle Kenned made her entrance, took a breath, and started singing. Soon after, she was joined by baritone William Berger, dressed in a bedazzled blue coat, making the pair stand out against the black outfits of the instrumental ensemble.
The Opera Favourites performance on the last day of the 2024 Woordfees featured arrangements by Antoni Schonken and Arthur Feder, and was directed by pianist Elna van der Merwe. PHOTO: Supplied/Mark Cloete
The performance showcased well-known arias from 12 operas. One could not find fault with the performances. Antoni Schonken and Arthur Feder set out to arrange these arias for the string instruments and Van der Merwe’s piano was an unconventional approach. This made for a refreshing, light and energetic rendition of the classical tales.
Between solos and some duets, the singers’ voices reached impeccable heights and rang clear and smooth. They completely embodied each song, making for a playful and creative dynamic between them. The musicians played each note with tenderness, and were perfectly in sync as Van der Merwe nodded her head to indicate the next note.
An exciting twist arose when Van der Merwe and violinist Zanta Hofmeyr announced two instrumental pieces, not from any opera. While the singers rested their voices, the audience was pleasantly surprised with a John Williams piece from Star Wars, and Twilight’s “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri.
It seemed that the audience also enjoyed the performance, with enthusiastic applause after each song and loud cheering as the singers reached each high note.
The performers took their final bow together and were met by a well-deserved standing ovation. This performance could be enjoyed by everyone, from an opera aficionado to curious music lovers. It is unfortunate that they were only at the festival for one night.
Pianist Elna van der Merwe, directed and accompanied the Opera Favourites on the closing night of Woordfees. PHOTO: Supplied/Mark Cloete