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30 August 2024
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Story Jacky Tshokwe
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Photo Supplied
Prof Anmari van der Westhuizen – a renowned contemporary solo cellist and academic at the University of the Free State (UFS).
In May 2024, Prof Anmari van der Westhuizen – a renowned contemporary solo cellist and academic at the University of the Free State (UFS) – represented South Africa on an international stage at Bard College, New York. This prestigious engagement marks a significant milestone in her career as she prepares to deliver two contemporary solo cello concerts featuring world premiere performances of works by both Austrian and South African composers.
The concerts, scheduled to take place during October 2024 in Vienna and Salzburg – celebrated for their rich musical heritage and vibrant contemporary music scenes – promise to be a unique cultural exchange. Prof Van der Westhuizen’s performances will showcase her expertise in contemporary solo violoncello music, bringing together the innovative compositions of Austrian and South African artists in a programme that highlights the dynamic interplay between these distinct musical traditions.
The project, which was approved by the UFS Research Committee, underscores the importance of cross-cultural dialogue and artistic collaboration in contemporary music. By presenting world premieres, Prof Van der Westhuizen not only introduces new SA solo compositions to global audiences, but also contributes to the continuous evolution of the violoncello repertoire. Her programme is anticipated to be a profound exploration of the unique musical languages and stylistic nuances inherent in both Austrian and South African compositions.
Prof Van der Westhuizen’s contribution to this international creative output extends beyond her performances. She has been invited to give lecture presentations at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, where she will delve into the works featured in her concerts. These presentations will offer insights into the compositional processes and cultural contexts that shape the contemporary music landscape in Austria and South Africa.
This project is more than a personal achievement for Prof Van der Westhuizen; it is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and unite diverse cultures. By engaging in this cultural exchange, she aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary music, paving the way for future collaborations between Austrian and South African musicians.
The UFS community is proud to support Prof Van der Westhuizen as she embarks on this extraordinary journey, which not only enhances her artistic growth but also strengthens the university’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange through the universal language of music.
Stay tuned for more updates on Prof Van der Westhuizen upcoming performances and lectures as she continues to make her mark on the international stage.
Competition emphasises value of mother-tongue education
2017-11-02
At the recent Multilingual Debating Competition were, from the left: Anita Muller,
local facilitator; William Magwa, master of ceremonies; Dr Chrismi-Rinda Loth,
project coordinator in the Unit for Language Facilitation and Empowerment; and
Mabatho Ntsieng, project facilitator in Community Engagement.
Photo: Supplied
The Multilingual Public Speaking Competition has been an annual event in Philippolis since 2013. The competition was established as a result of the Multilingual Information Development Programme (MIDP), a project sponsored by the province of Antwerp in Flanders, Belgium.
The competition is jointly hosted by the Unit for Language Facilitation and Empowerment (ULFE) at the University of the Free State (UFS) and the Department of Community Engagement, also from the UFS.
Debating in your home language
Grade 6 to 9 learners from four schools participated in this year’s competition. Bergmanshoogte Intermediate School, Madikgetla Primary School, Williamsville Primary School, and Springfontein Primary School each entered their three best speakers per grade.
Olerato Tshiloane, a Grade 7 learner from Madikgetla Primary School, was named best speaker overall.
Everyone debated on ‘Heritage’
The overall theme of this annual event was ‘Heritage’. Thirty six learners debated in their mother tongue on aspects of this theme, such as its definition, the role it plays in their lives, and the importance thereof. According to Dr Chrismi-Rinda Loth from ULFE, learners have to present their speeches in their mother tongues. “This emphasises the value of the mother tongue/home language within a teaching context,” she says.
This year’s competition saw 20 Afrikaans speeches, 13 in Sesotho, and three in isiXhosa. The multilingual adjudication panel was composed of teachers from the participating schools, and the head adjudicator from the Afrikaanse Taal- en Kultuurvereniging (ATKV). The ATKV is a partial sponsor of the competition and also provides the participation certificates.
Dr Loth says ULFE and Community Engagement are looking forward to continue their collaboration, thus contributing to the empowerment of the community.