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“In Zulu culture, in San culture, the mountains are a place of spirits, where the ancestors reside,” says award-winning jazz pianist, composer and academic Nduduzo Makhathini over the phone from East London.
He is talking about his upcoming gig on a stage set at the foot of the heavenly sandstone cliffs of the Maluti mountain range in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, in the Free State.
“It is exactly where I want to perform – far rather than in the club,” says the thoughtful, bearded artist.
“It’s the kind of alternative, authentic space where we can reimagine the spiritual nature of jazz.”
Makhathini is just one of the musical luminaries booked to perform to a limited audience of 300 guests at Golden Classics, taking place from November 30 to December 2.
At the park, which is 20km outside Clarens, Makhathini will be sharing a stage with stellar vocalist Lindiwe Maxolo.
It’s a joyful reunion, says Makhathini, who wrote for and produced Maxolo’s prize-winning debut album, Time.
But it’s not all jazz that’s awaiting visitors. There will be a classical music evening too, which includes performances by baritone Aubrey Lodewyk and soprano Caroline Nkwe, who will be accompanied by the Free State Symphony Orchestra with a special appearance by the Gauteng Opera.
Celebrated arranger and conductor Kutlwano Masote will steer the event.
“What we are all doing there in the mountains is using our music to help us find new ways of being free,” says Makhathini before ringing off.
Tickets are moving fast but can still be bought if you visit goldengateclassics.org. The all-inclusive packages cost:
. R2 030 for one night per person
. R4 000 for two people sharing for one night
. R7 100 for two people sharing for two nights
. R3 615 for one person for two nights
WIN
SA National Parks is offering a pair of free tickets for the weekend to one lucky City Press reader. Transport is not included in the prize.
To stand a chance of winning, SMS 35697 using the keyword GOLDEN. Please include your name and province. SMSes cost R1.50. By participating, you agree to receive occasional marketing material
