LISTEN: KZN Youth Orchestra plays in studio
We were left in complete awe of these two kids who represented the KZN Youth Orchestra. Listen to their interviews with Vic Naidoo below.
We were honoured and so impressed with our guests in the studio on Wednesday. The KZN Youth Orchestra sent two of their members through to represent them in the studio and showcase just a portion of the heaps of talent they possess.
This was a prelude to what they will offer Durbanites this weekend at the Music in the Durban Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre concert.
Weien Amy Luo, 13, and her little brother Xizhi Aiden Luo, 9 (who also happens to be one of the past participants on the Last Kid Standing Competition), brought with them their very elegant violins.
Quick fact, did you know that the size of a violin should be in correspondence with the length of the person playing it? Well, we didn't know so we were amazed when little Aiden had told us that he had forgotten his violin at home and had asked his dad to bring it through so he could play for us.
We found out some interesting information about this sister-brother musical duo. Amy, at five years old, was already a budding pianist, performing with the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra. She won the SAMRO National Music Competition, playing the piano, in 2018 (aged 10). Amy has only been playing violin for three years. She passed her Grade 7 exam in November last year, with a high distinction of 99%.
As for her charismatic brother Aiden, he started playing music from four years of age. He plays both piano and violin. Last year he was accepted as the youngest ever member of the KZN Youth Orchestra. He plays in 2nd violin.
The kids were accompanied by Rosie, who shared that the orchestra, comprising 45 musicians from around KZN, between the ages of 7 and 18, will play a programme which will include some popular classics, film music, and some local South African tunes!
She spoke so eloquently about the orchestral music and how there is a science to it that we felt like we were in the presence of royalty. But when you listen to the full podcast of the kids in the studio, you will quickly realise that they are the future and the future seems brighter with kids like this.
What type of music do you enjoy - take part in our poll below.
On Sunday, May 16th, the KZN Youth Orchestra will be presenting a lovely varied programme of music in Durban’s beautiful Botanic Gardens.
The event will take place at the Amphitheatre, which currently allows seating for 150 patrons per show. There will be two shows at 11 am and 1 pm. It is a beautiful spot for a picnic so bring those hampers, chairs, and blankets and the whole family and enjoy a glorious day out.
Rosie mentioned that there were still tickets available for the 11 am show so make sure to go check it out.
Listen to the kids playing in studio and their interviews with Vic Naidoo below.