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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.
Renowned Sign Language expert heads UFS department
2009-11-27
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| Mr Philemon Akach |
The Department of Afro-asiatic Studies, Sign Language and Language Practice in the Faculty of the Humanities at the University of the Free State recently appointed Mr Philemon Akach as its new chairperson.
Mr Akach, hitherto a senior lecturer in the department, succeeds Prof Annelie Lotriet who left the university earlier this year after having been elected to serve in the national parliament by the Democratic Alliance.
“To head the entire department has never crossed my mind because I think I am discipline oriented,” he said.
He said the confidence that his colleagues have in him gives him the impetus to succeed. “It gives me the opportunity to rethink my position within the department and the university at large,” he said.
However, his Sign Language students will be glad to know that he will not be lost to them as the result of this new responsibility.
“I cannot neglect Sign Language,” he stressed. “I have to teach because the academic side of Sign Language has to be maintained within the university, as well as nationally and internationally. I just have to divide my time between the administration of Sign Language and the teaching and research application in my discipline (Sign Language).”
To ease the load that comes with his new responsibility and the added pressure of being the only Sign Language lecturer, he said they have contracted former students to teach some courses in Sign Language.
“We have to keep in place the disciplines that keep this department’s name going,” he said.
A major challenge facing his department, according to Mr Akach, is getting more students enrolled in the disciplines offered by the department.
“To get students we need to convince them that we are the best, and that is not just a challenge for me but for the department and the lecturers in the department teaching those disciplines.”
He said he will strive for excellence in the department as part of the overall vision of the university.
“We need to get research output while not neglecting the teaching part. It is research that brings in new knowledge and it is through research that scholars expose themselves to the outside world, and by doing that they actually put the name of this university on the international map,” he said.
Mr Akach will serve in this position for the next three years.
Media release
Issued by: Mangaliso Radebe
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2828
Cell: 078 460 3320
E-mail: radebemt.stg@ufs.ac.za
26 November 2009