Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra to premiere Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 concert film
Image: Supplied
The Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra (Mzansi Philharmonic) is set to take audiences on a captivating cinematic journey with the world première of its concert film, Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Francois Verster, this remarkable film will hit screens across South Africa from 25 to 30 July 2025. This screening represents a momentous occasion in South African cultural history, marking the first time this monumental symphonic work is presented nationwide by a South African orchestra in such a cinematic format.
Conducted by the esteemed Marin Alsop, the film was captured live at the iconic Cape Town City Hall in 2022. It promises to offer a fresh interpretation of Beethoven's timeless Ode to Joy, infused with a uniquely South African essence. Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the Mzansi Philharmonic, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, 'This historic presentation will showcase the iconic Ode to Joy, reimagined with a unique South African soul.' He highlighted the collaboration with Grammy-winning artist Wouter Kellerman and his ensemble, which adds depth to the performance by integrating the Zulu language alongside the original German text, thereby reflecting the nation's rich linguistic diversity and artistic expression.
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For the first time in South African history, Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 will be presented in cinemas nationwide — performed by the Mzansi National Philharmonic Orchestra and brought to screen in partnership with Ster-Kinekor.
Image: Supplied
Lynne Wylie, Head of Marketing at Ster-Kinekor, echoed this sentiment, stating, 'We're incredibly proud to partner with South Africa's national orchestra to bring this world-class cultural event to cinemas across the country. At Ster-Kinekor, we believe in the power of cinema to connect audiences with powerful stories, and Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 Concert Film is exactly that: a story of joy, unity, and the beauty of cultural fusion.' With its unique artistic vision, this film promises to resonate deeply with South African audiences, bringing the magic of live orchestral performance to the big screen.
The cultural significance of this initiative goes beyond entertainment; it aims to foster civic pride and engagement among South Africans. By reaching diverse audiences, from students to culture enthusiasts and the general public, the concert film encourages greater participation in the arts, paving the way for a new generation of South African musicians and artists. Nicole Haynes, Business and Tour Manager of Mzansi Philharmonic and associate producer of the film, articulated the orchestra's mission, stating, 'This project represents a landmark in our mission to make world-class orchestral music accessible to all South Africans.' She emphasised the universal themes of hope, joy, and resilience embedded in Beethoven's music, inviting every audience member to connect across backgrounds.
Francois Verster, reflecting on his experience as part of this collaborative project, remarked, 'Being able to make a film of a performance of Beethoven's 9th Symphony during the Mzansi Philharmonic Orchestra's first nationwide tour has been a wonderful opportunity. Full symphony concerts are rarely viewed in cinemas, and what we have attempted with this film is to offer a new way of presenting a concert within the cinema space. This project aims to interpret the music while emphasising the musicians' experience, creating an immersive atmosphere that places viewers on stage with them.'
In addition to its artistic merits, the concert film is expected to yield substantial economic benefits for South Africa's creative sector. The arts contribute significantly to the nation's economy, supporting thousands of jobs and driving cultural tourism. During the Mzansi Philharmonic's successful first national tour in December 2022, over 250 artists were employed, including musicians, choristers, visual artists, and performers. This film project, alongside the orchestra's national tours, aims to widen access to orchestral music, stimulate interest in the arts, and showcase South Africa's cultural exports on a global platform.
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