Arts editor
THE consulate of Italy in Cape Town, in collaboration with the Italian Institute of Culture in Pretoria, has organised a series of cultural events to entertain throughout October: a double jazz concert, an opera recital and a lecture on Dante Alighieri for the 750th anniversary of his birth. More upcoming events are also planned – such as an Italian Film Festival, another jazz artist showcase and a Christmas concert in December.
With the help of Musica per Roma Foundation two different Italian jazz ensembles will perform at the Chisholm Recital Room, SA College of Music in UCT, on Sunday from 3pm to 5pm. These free gigs feature Quiet Journey with Antonio Jasevoli on classical and electric guitar and Paolo Damiani on cello. Together they present a wide sensorial and musical vision built on improvisation. Their chemistry is founded in the ethno-classical field and the concept of the ritual.
Original compositions and arrangements, both with moments of structured improvisations and free dialogue, will highlight the experience.
The second project is Dajaloo with Pietro Tonolo on tenor sax, Giancarlo Bianchetti electric and acoustic guitar, and Senegalese artist Dudu Kouate on percussion. Dajaloo is Wolof for “to stay together”. The music of this ensemble is the result of a trip to Senegal by saxophone player Pietro Tonolo, and of his growing interest in African music. Light refreshments will be served between the two concerts. Guga S’thebe Arts and Culture Centre in Langa will host a free opera recital on October 10 from 3pm to 5pm.
Here a taste of opera from Italy will see the Ensemble U. Giordano feature Dino De Palma on violin, Luciano Tarantino on cello, Gianna Fratta on piano, soprano Teresa Di Bari, tenor Cataldo Caputo and baritone Federico Longhi.
They will offer a selection of acclaimed arias preceded by a performance of UCT Opera School singers – mezzo-soprano Siphokazi Molteno, tenor Thando Mjandana, and baritone Luvuyo Mbundu, accompanied at the piano by Dr. Lisa Engelbrecht. After the concert, a light cocktail reception will close the program.
l 021 487 3900, www.con scapetown.esteri.it