The University of Pretoria (UP) recently held its annual Principal’s Concert, captivating hundreds of attendees who gathered at the Aula on Hatfield campus for two nights of enchanting musical performances.
This premier event showcased the extraordinary synergy created when the UP Symphony Orchestra, UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble, UP Chorale and UP Camerata come together, along with singers and piano soloists.
The Principal’s Concert showcases the university’s commitment to fostering excellence across an array of artistic genres, while reinforcing its advancement of local youth within the realm of the arts.
This year’s event was held under the theme ‘Make Today Matter – The Light We Cast’, and combined choirs, an orchestra, soloists, and visual and dramatic arts, taking the audience on a journey from darkness to light through three compelling segments. It addressed global issues such as conflict, climate change and mental health.
“As the music unfolded, we were reminded that amid darkness lies the opportunity to Make Today Matter, said Professor Themba Mosia, UP’s Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal. “Inspired by UP’s students, this call to action urges us to confront adversity with determination, fostering hope and positive change in our lives and the world around us.”
Mosia called upon the audience – which was made up of students, staff members, donors, leaders of industries, representatives of various embassies and government delegates – to embark on a transformative musical journey and reflect on the powerful message of the event’s theme.
“Through every note and performance, we are reminded that even in the face of the greatest global challenges, we have the ability to shine a light, to inspire hope and to make a meaningful difference,” Mosia said. “The artistry we witness serves as a testament to the talent and resilience within our community, and the role we all play in shaping a brighter tomorrow.”
Mosia also encouraged the audience to support UP’s Giving Matters campaign by purchasing a raffle ticket for a chance to win a 1967 VW Beetle. The campaign aims to raise funds for the ‘missing middle’ – students who do not qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme funding, yet cannot afford university fees.
“Since its launch three years ago, we’ve raised over R90 million and are nearing our R100 million goal,” he said. “We hope you will help us reach it.”
UP Chorale members Delise van der Merwe and Jamie Lamb said: “The concert was extraordinary this year.
“Seeing the UP ensembles come together and perform so well was inspiring. It was encouraging to see the UP Camerata embrace our piece, ‘Please Stay’.”
Keotshepile Molefe of Human Resources Systems at UP, said: “This year’s concert was different to last year’s. The message for this year’s concert was very relatable and I could resonate with certain aspects of the evening. I also loved how people showed up in brand colours; they looked stunning.”
With Heritage Month being commemorated in South Africa this month, the concert was an opportunity to celebrate the country’s diverse and rich heritage, which incorporates African, Asian and European cultures and traditions.
Through the performances, the audience was reminded that heritage plays a significant role in their daily lives as it shapes both individual and collective identity.
“Heritage, through art and cultural expression, helps us to understand our present and shape our future,” Mosia noted.