Reflections

REFLECTIONS

with Zanta Hofmeyr (violin) & Cameron Upchurch (organ)

25 October 2025

Odeion

19:00

Music for violin and pipe organ has fascinated audiences for centuries, and with good reason. The organ, often described as a symphony orchestra in itself, offers a vast range of tonal colours and textures through its various registrations - capable of mimicking orchestral instruments or supporting the violin with rich, sustained harmonies. This remarkable pairing enables expressive freedom and sonorities that surpass what is possible with piano accompaniment.

Renowned South African violinist Zanta Hofmeyr and celebrated organist Cameron Upchurch will collaborate in a captivating concert that showcases their unique partnership. The programme features a thoughtfully curated selection of well-loved classics and exciting contemporary works. Audiences can look forward to Satie’s evocative Gymnopédie, Vivaldi’s sparkling Concerto in D major, and the Adagio from Brahms’ Violin Concerto, alongside fresh discoveries such as the lyrical Romance for violin and organ by Swedish composer Otto Olsson and the atmospheric Gothic Hymn by young American composer Daniel Ficarri.

This concert promises a musical journey that will delight both violin and organ enthusiasts, offering a blend of timeless beauty and modern brilliance.

About the Artists

Zanta Hofmeyr graduated from the Juilliard School of Music (New York), where she studied under Dorothy Delay and Hyo Kang. Following her acclaimed New York debut at Carnegie Recital Hall, she returned to South Africa, where she has built a distinguished performing and teaching career. A regular soloist with major orchestras, her repertoire spans from Bach to Brahms and beyond. She has received numerous accolades, including the Woman of the Year award (1999) and several Fiësta prizes, and has served as adjudicator at international and local competitions. Currently based in Johannesburg, she teaches violin privately and at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University).

Cameron Upchurch holds BMus and MMus degrees from the former University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville, where he studied with Errol Slatter and Kobus du Plooy. His academic focus on the music reforms of the Second Vatican Council reflects a lifelong dedication to liturgical music. He has served as organist at several prominent churches, including Emmanuel Cathedral and Holy Trinity, Musgrave Road, and is currently the Head of Chapel Music at St John’s College, Johannesburg, as well as the Director of Music at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Braamfontein.

PROGRAMME:

Fratres – Arvo Pärt

All’Elevation – Domenico Zipoli

Gothic Hymn – Daniel Ficarri

Adagio (from Violin Concerto) – Johannes Brahms

Concerto in D major – Antonio Vivaldi

Romance – Otto Olsson

Gymnopédie – Erik Satie

Peace – Sigurd Øgaard

ADMISSION:

R100 (adults)

R50 (pensioners, students, learners)

Tickets available at Quicket or at the door (card sales only)

A concert not to be missed – an evening where strings and pipes intertwine in a musical conversation of elegance, power, and grace.