Take Four Piano Quartet

We are delighted to welcome back the acclaimed piano quartet Take Four to Plettenberg Bay for a special fundraising concert in support of the PlettAid Foundation. Following their unforgettable performance in August 2022, this ensemble of four of South Africa’s most distinguished classical musicians—Zanta Hofmeyr (violin), Jeanne-Louise Moolman (cello), Susan Mouton (viola), and Elna van der Merwe (piano)—returns with their signature blend of virtuosity, warmth, and heartfelt camaraderie. Their music, enriched by decades of friendship and collaboration, promises an evening of inspiration and world-class artistry in aid of a vital local cause.

Programme

Piano Quartet in E-flat major, K.493 (1786) (W.A. Mozart 1756 – 1791)

1. Allegro.
2. Larghetto
3. Allegretto

Piano Quartet no. 1 Opus 15 (Gabriel Fauré 1845 – 1924)

1. Allegro molto moderato
2. Scherzo, Allegro vivo
3. Adagio
4. Allegro molto

Take Four Piano Quartet: success thanks to synergy and long-standing friendship

The success of the South African piano quartet Take Four stems not only from their musical excellence but also from a deep, enduring friendship among its members—violinist Zanta Hofmeyr, cellist Jeanne-Louise Moolman, violist Susan Mouton, and pianist Elna van der Merwe. Though they live in different cities, their decades-long bond led to the formation of the ensemble in 2022, sparked by Moolman's realization that time was pressing. Their debut tour in the Western Cape quickly became an annual tradition, with performances at prestigious venues such as the Woordfees, Odeion Theatre, and Tankwa Classics. Audiences have responded with enthusiasm, drawn to both the quartet’s synergy and their thoughtfully curated repertoire, which has included works by Brahms, Dvorák, Mozart, and Fauré.

Each member brings a distinguished musical background to the group. Van der Merwe is a celebrated collaborative pianist and musical director of Tankwa Classics, while Hofmeyr, a Juilliard alumna, is a soloist and educator with numerous recordings and accolades. Moolman, a seasoned violist and chamber musician, has inspired compositions by South African composers and performed internationally. Mouton, principal violist of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, is also a respected chamber musician and competition judge. Looking ahead, Take Four plans to tour annually during Women’s Month and expand their repertoire biennially, with performances already scheduled for 2025 in the Western Cape and Gauteng. Their journey is a testament to the power of friendship, shared passion, and artistic collaboration.