Music is a universal language. It is in the shared experience of a gathered audience that communities celebrate both their diversity and their common ground. Thus in South Africa, where many languages are spoken, and diverse cultures intersect, the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra plays an important role. Ably led by Bongani Tembe for the past 18 years, the KZN Philharmonic has, through its message of hope and unity, continued to inspire its audiences and contribute toward social cohesion.

The orchestra, through its myriad programmes, also contributes to economic development, job creation and helps to brand eThekwini Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa positively around the world.

The KZN Philharmonic is a professional orchestra of around 70 multi-national musicians. The orchestra enjoys a reputation for excellence and innovation among South African orchestras, resulting in a loyal support base from the local community, regular concert subscribers and visitors to the province of

KwaZulu-Natal.

Founded in 1983 as part of the Natal Performing Arts Council (later The Playhouse Company), the KZN Philharmonic was restructured in April 1998 as an independent viable entity according to the new South African Arts and Culture dispensation policy.

The Orchestra travels extensively and has undertaken highly successful tours to Europe and other parts of Africa. In 2011 the Orchestra participated in three major productions beyond the borders of KwaZulu-Natal - two in Gauteng and the third in Grahamstown, at the National Arts Festival, where it is the resident orchestra for the next two years.

The Orchestra is primarily funded by grants from eThekwini Municipality, the KZN Government, the National Department of Arts and Culture via the National Arts Council, and the National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund. The remainder of its income is derived from sponsorships, donations, box office and hire outs.

The World Symphony Series (WSS), which features world-renowned artists such as Renee Fleming, Pinchas Zuckerman, Vladimir Ashkenazy and Zubin Mehta, as well as top South African musicians such as Sibongile Khumalo, Fikile Mvinjelwa, Anton Nel and Ben Schoeman, forms an integral part of the orchestra's annual programme.

For collaborations with the KZN Philharmonic please contact the office of the Chief Executive and Artistic Director on 031 369 9438  or email bonganitembe@kznpo.co.za.

Bongani Tembe, Chief Executive & Artistic Director

First Violin

Joanna Frankel ***

Violeta Osorhean **

Beatris Lauenburg *

Elena Kerimova

Geza Kayser

Lidia Sanacori

Nataliia Pronenko

Emi Fukuda

Roberto Palma

Mihail Mihaylov

Thandeka Benbooi^

Second Violin

Petya Koleva *

Megumi Tokosumi

Ievgen Pronenko

Thomas Steinhausen

Danielle Mears

Patrick Motsa

Naum Rousine

Jane Baillie^

Dineo Molebatsi^

Sue-Phil Petersen^

Regomodicoe Molosioa^

Viola

David Snaith *

Todor Hadgiev

Nassi Gueorguieva

Annamaria D’Andrea

Ingrid Snaith

Laura Blazyte

Tshegofatso Mokobe ^

Cello

Boris Kerimov *

Ralitsa Pechoux

Kolio Kolev

Cecilia Di Cecco

Fiona Grayer

Marguerite Spies

Double Bass

Simon Miliken *

Yuri Litvinenko

Andreas Kappen

Mihail Sirakov

Jonalene Taylor^

Flute

Sabine Baird *

Lisa Thom

Kim Watson

Oboe

Nuria Cabezas Castaño*

Stella Martin

Margrit  Deppe

Clarinet

Irene Chen *

Nicole Starr

Kirsten Sayers

Bassoon

Vessela Minkova *

Lubomir Minkov

Anele Mnguni

Xavier Cloete^

French Horn

Sorin Osorhean *

Tzanko Tzankov

Alice Thomson

Marian Van Duyker

Andre Valentine ^

Trumpet

Michel Schneuwly *

Ari Micich

Cathy Peacock

Nathan Lawrence^

Trombone

Benoit Coutris*

Duncan Wooldridge

Bass Trombone

Jonathan Hooper *

Tuba

George Foster *

Timpani

Stephane Pechoux *

Percussion

Nick Stone*

Nidhi Gangan^

Thando Nkangana^

Harp

Linor Steinhausen *

Orchestra Manager

Ian Smith

Education and Development

Wiseman Mkhise

Stage Manager

Alson Ngcobo

Stage Crew

Enoch Ndimande

Patrick Ndlovu

*** Concert Master

** Assoc. Concert Master

*Principal

^ Cadet

ORCHESTRA STAFF

Chief Executive & Artistic Director

Bongani Tembe

PA to the CE&AD

Orchestra Manager

Ian Smith

Marketing Director

Sue Murray

Accountant

Hayley Munro

Subscriptions and Publicity Co-ordinator

Nompilo Mtshali

Education Coordinator

Wiseman Mkhize

Librarian

Diana Bell

Assistant Librarian

Lubo Minkov

Receptionist / Marketing Assistant

Portia Masinga

Stage Manager

Alson Ngcobo

CORPORATE HOSPITALITY AND PRIVATE FUNCTIONS

The orchestra’s regular symphony concerts provide the ideal environment to entertain clients or reward top performers. Block bookings are available at reduced rates and can be tailored to include pre- or post-concert drinks or functions.

Group subscriptions are also available and can be used for similar purposes throughout the season.

You can also enjoy a stunning performance of your favourite music at your own corporate venue, gala ceremony or special event. For further information on how to turn any event into an unforgettable musical experience with Africa’s premier orchestra, please contact the office of the Chief Executive and Artistic Director by completing the enquiry form below.