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International opera singer and UFS lecturer earns PhD in Vocal Studies

07 December 2023 | Story Anthony Mthembu | Photo SUPPLIED

Albertus Engelbrecht: Lecturer in Singing and Coordinator of Vocal Studies at the Odeion School of Music.

The University of the Free State (UFS) is gearing up to honour a new group of graduates during the upcoming graduation ceremonies on 7-8 December 2023. Among the distinguished individuals set to grace the stage is Albertus Engelbrecht, Coordinator of Vocal Studies at the Odeion School of Music and an internationally recognised opera singer with a career spanning over two decades.

Engelbrecht has achieved a significant milestone, completing his PhD thesis titled “The Journey of a Versatile Singer”. On 7 December 2023, he will formally receive his qualification, marking the culmination of a seven-year academic journey. Reflecting on this achievement, Engelbrecht expressed his relief, stating, “It’s all still so surreal, but I think that the moment I walk onto that stage, then, will it only sink in.’’

The journey of a versatile singer

His thesis is an auto-ethnographic study that delves into the preparation and performance of five different styles and genres of Western art music. This unique approach includes a practical component, as he actively participated in five different concerts or performances, ultimately contributing to his research. He shared his motivation, stating, ‘’I was investigating how it would be possible to sing different kinds of Western art music styles and genres. The idea came from my professional experience, where I found that to become a successful opera and concert singer, it’s better for one to be able to do different styles and genres.’’

Looking ahead, Engelbrecht envisions his research making a meaningful impact on the development of emerging singers. He aspires to shape the future of vocal education, stating, “I hope that my contribution leads to new knowledge not only for singers but for their teachers and vocal coaches. This is so that they can approach music in the way it is written, and to find ways which make the music speak the best way it can. In this way, singers can be more versatile.’’

Future plans

Post-graduation, Engelbrecht has ambitious plans to further his growth within the industry. Expressing his goals, he said, ‘’I would like to grow not just as a performing artist but as a researcher too.” Currently collaborating with his former supervisor on a research project focusing on performance analysis, Engelbrecht aims to delve deeper into the research aspect of his profession. Additionally, as a Lecturer of Singing at the UFS, he looks forward to engaging in more performing projects with his students.

In recognition of Albertus Engelbrecht’s remarkable achievement, the UFS community congratulates him on this significant milestone. His dedication to the field of vocal studies and commitment to fostering versatility in music is truly commendable.

News Archive

Lithium-ion batteries research set to improve ordinary lives

2016-02-11

Description: Dr Lehlohonolo Koao Tags: Dr Lehlohonolo Koao

Dr Koao is making a much-needed contribution in improving lives of ordinary people through his research on lithium-ion batteries.

The future of relevant and top-notch scientific research at the Qwaqwa Campus is in good hands. Dr Lehlohonolo Koao is one of the five members of the Vice-Chancellor’s Prestige Scholars Programme (PSP) on the Qwaqwa Campus.

The need to improve the efficiency of heating mechanisms in his immediate community in Qwaqwa, and the support he receives from the PSP, have become catalysts for his current research project on lithium-ion batteries. According to Dr Koao, the study will focus on producing batteries that last longer, store more energy, are cheaper to manufacture, and are environmentally friendly when being disposed of. These are key factors in solar energy.

‘’The majority of households in my neighbourhood have benefited from the government’s project of providing households with solar panels to help with lighting, cooking, and heating without worrying about the ever-increasing electricity costs,’’ said Dr Koao.

‘’Since my arrival in the area, I have realized that the heat absorption rate of the batteries used by solar panels is not enough. As a result, these batteries also lack enough power to sustain the supply throughout the day, especially on a cloudy day,’’ he said.

His research project focuses on improving the efficiency of lithium-ion batteries that are now commonly used in portable electronics, such as cell phones and laptops. This kind of battery is rapidly replacing the usual lead-acid batteries. Dr Koao’s determination to contribute towards a safer and more efficient heating absorption system has made him move away completely from his PhD study on lighting material.

‘’My previous study was on reducing the power usage on domestic and industrial lights as they use more electricity. This study, on the other hand, will enhance power retention in the batteries for improved daily life since cell phones, solar panels, and laptops, to mention only a few, are now a way of life,’’ he added.

Dr Koao is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics, where he specializes in solid state materials.

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