06 September 2023
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Story Samkelo Fetile
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Photo kaleidoscope
Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of the Free State, welcomes the attendees at the Vice Chancellor's Concert.
2023 Vice-Chancellor's Concert programme
The University of the Free State (UFS) once again played host to a spectacular evening of musical talent and inspiration at the annual Vice-Chancellor's Concert, held recently. This much-anticipated event brought together the UFS community, music enthusiasts, and visitors from Bloemfontein and beyond, creating a memorable night of harmony and celebration.
The Vice-Chancellor's Concert has long been a beloved tradition at the UFS, showcasing the incredible musical talents that exist within the university's diverse community. This year's event lived up to its reputation and exceeded all expectations, providing a variety of performances that left the audience spellbound.
The theme for this year's concert, 'We can all make this world brighter,' set the stage for an evening that not only entertained, but also inspired. As the audience gathered to welcome the arrival of Spring, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of optimism and anticipation for the season ahead.
The star-studded line-up featured an array of remarkable talent, both from within the UFS community and beyond. A highlight of the evening was the appearance of the gifted
Tasché Burger, the winner of the third season of The Voice SA in 2019. Her performance was nothing short of mesmerising, as she showcased her vocal prowess and undeniable stage presence, leaving the audience in awe.
The Odeion String Quartet, comprising Samson Diamond, Sharon de Kock, Jeanne-Louise Moolman, and Anmari van der Westhuizen, graced the stage with their masterful string compositions, creating a variety of harmonious melodies that resonated deeply with the audience.
Khopotso Dibane, an ambitious and driven BA degree student at UFS, showed her passion for singing and exceptional interpersonal skills.
Zama Zulu, a third-year Psychology student and incoming SRC Arts and Culture representative, along with Bayanda Mkhize, a second-year Law student, who drew inspiration from "What About Love" by Jennifer Hudson and Cynthia Erivo, symbolising the strength of friendships and universal love, showcased their remarkable talents to a captivated audience.
Emily Dangwa’s remarkable vocal abilities shone through her performnce as the highly accomplished musician, showcased her remarkable talent and dedication to music.
Thabo Hlongwane and Minette Bowen joined forces for a soul-stirring duet that left hearts touched, while the Eunice Vitae Cantamus Choir of
Eunice Girls' High School, under the guidance of director Retha Visser and accompanied by Anton Esterhuyse, showcased their angelic voices in a performance that lifted spirits.
The UFS choir, conducted by Werner Stander, brought their collective talents to the fore, filling the hall with a rich choral sound that echoed through the hearts of all present. Ella Kotze and Naledi Mohapi also graced the stage, adding their unique voices to the night's line-up and leaving a lasting impression.
“The Vice-Chancellor's Concert was a testament to the power of music to unite, uplift, and inspire. As the final notes of the evening faded away, one could see that the audience was left with a sense of renewed hope and a commitment to making the world a brighter place, as the concert's theme suggested,” said
Prof Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the UFS.
As we bid farewell to the 2023 Vice-Chancellor's Concert, we are left with memories of a night filled with musical brilliance and a message of hope. The UFS community looks forward to another year of exceptional performances and the opportunity to come together once again to celebrate the power of music to illuminate our lives.