The Symposium of South African Composers takes places from 9 to 13 September 2024 at the SU Konservatorium, Stellenbosch. This is the foreword by the convenor, Antoni Schonken.
As we gather for the second annual Symposium of South African Composers, we are filled with immense pride and excitement. This symposium is a unique event in our country, a cornerstone for fostering a healthy and vibrant compositional culture. It is a place where connections are made, where education is prioritised and where we can listen, experiment and grow together.
Our journey began with Kompos, a vision to create a platform where composers, music creators, sound artists and educators could come together to share and celebrate contemporary South African music across a diverse range of genres. Fifteen years later, this vision has materialised into an event that not only highlights the richness of our musical heritage, but also pushes the boundaries of creative expression.
For us, the most rewarding part of being a composer is navigating the complex constellation of technical, historical, aesthetic, social and health-related factors that define the creation of music. The process is a constant learning challenge, one that inspires us deeply. Through this symposium, we hope that younger composers will forge stronger friendships with their peers and that our collective research and creative outputs will continue to flourish.
We are particularly excited about the diversity and innovative expression of creative identity that this year’s symposium will bring. Each session, workshop and concert is a testament to the incredible talent and creativity that exists within our borders. We are witnessing a renaissance of creative expression in South Africa, and it is through initiatives like this that we can continue to break down the barriers that once excluded so many.
We are deeply grateful to Stellenbosch University, and in particular Prof Mario Nell and Prof Sibusisu Moyo, for unwavering support of our dream. To the Mzansi National Philharmonic and the Rupert Foundation: thank you for believing in us and for supporting young composers and music creators. And to all our musical friends who (without hesitation) gave your time, expertise and energy to perform our sometimes strange new ideas: none of this would be possible without your passion and dedication to growing the musical arts in South Africa. Thank you!
We invite you to enjoy the symposium with us!
- Website for info and programme: www.sacomposers.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/sacomposers
See also:
Antoni Schonken oor die tweede simposium van Suid-Afrikaanse komponiste
