Six Stellenbosch University students have scooped coveted spots after they beat out hundreds of applicants to be selected for the Africa United Youth Orchestra, where they will perform at Carnegie Hall for World Orchestra Week!
Stellenbosch, South Africa (26 July 2024) — Six Stellenbosch University students have scooped coveted spots as they join the Africa United Youth Orchestra (AUYO); a golden ticket to perform at Carnegie Hall.
Stellenbosch University’s Department of Music (SU Konservatorium) has announced that students Gilah Kellner (Concertmaster), Catherine Stiff (Associate Concertmaster), Gretna Heynike (Violin 1), Carina Naudé (Violin 1), Ricardo Hiniker (Violin 2) and Courtney Sampson on the French Horn have all made them very proud with their selection.
Said selection saw over 200 applicants make a beeline for the opportunity, with applicants hailing from several African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, the DRC and Mozambique.
“This achievement not only highlights the students’ exceptional skills but also brings significant recognition to the university on an international stage,” praises Dr Suzanne Martens, a Senior Lecturer in violin and chamber music and Stellenbosch University.
American conductor William Eddins will lead the African Youth Orchestra’s performance as part of Carnegie Hall’s World Orchestra Week (WOW)—a prestigious event and summer festival that unites the top calibre of young musicians from all over the world.
The performance will take place on 3 August, where the AUYO is part of a programme including the National Children’s Symphony of Venezuela, the Beijing Youth Symphony Orchestra, the European Union Youth Orchestra and the Afghan Youth Orchestra.
In something of a prelude to Carnegie Hall, the AUYO will perform on 28 July at UNISA in Pretoria. Here, acclaimed South African composers and voices will also be featured.