Darling Cello Recital

Get ready for an unforgettable cello recital featuring the incredible talents of Michael Kevin Jones and Sjoerd Alkema!

Acclaimed English cellist Michael Kevin Jones studied at the Royal College of Music in London and the Robert Schumann Hochschule Düsseldorf, Germany. He's performed with top musical groups worldwide, recorded critically acclaimed albums, and toured extensively. Notably, Jones recorded the complete J.S. Bach Cello Suites on a 1667 Stradivarius cello for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, earning international recognition.

Sjoerd Alkema is a multifaceted musician - conductor, accompanist, educator, and examiner for UNISA. He holds BMus and MMus degrees from the University of Cape Town and a Doctorate in Music. Alkema has conducted large-scale productions, including Fledermaus and Bach's Christmas Oratorio, and serves as Musical Director of the Con Spirito Philharmonic Society.

Some of the standout pieces in the program include:

- J.S. Bach's "Como una fantasía": A timeless classic reimagined for solo cello

- Vivaldi's Sonata no 5 in E minor: A harmonious blend of Largo and Allegro movements for cello and piano

-Max Bruch's "Kol Nidrei": A poignant and evocative piece for cello and piano

- Beethoven's Sonata no 1 op 5 in F major: A masterpiece of classical music featuring Adagio sostenuto, Allegro, and Allegro Vivace movements

The combination of Jones' cello mastery and Alkema's nuanced accompaniment promises an unforgettable musical experience.

The recital coincides with Darling's stunning flower season, transforming the town into a kaleidoscope of colors. The surrounding farmlands burst into bloom, showcasing a diverse array of wildflowers, including chinkerinchee, ixias, and heliophila. Visit the Tienie Versfeld Wildflower Reserve, Darling Renosterveld Reserve, or Waylands Wildflower Reserve to experience the beauty of nature.

The Darling Wildflower Show, guided flower walks, and incredible art and wine routes are some of the must visit events happening in town around the same time, so do make a day of it. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the incredible floral wealth of Darling.