It's been four years since the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Arts & Culture, a division of the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA), has hosted its Dean's Concert. Now, the executive dean of FADA, Professor Federico Freschi, has brought the gala fundraiser back.
The award-winning UJ Choir joins the celebration under the baton of newly appointed senior choirmaster Sizwe Mondlane. With a vibrant stage presence, the choir's signature repertoire moves seamlessly from African to Western choral music, and will join the soloists in a rousing rendition of Verdi’s Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves from the opera Nabucco.
Emerging and established vocal talents Khayakazi Madlala (debuting with Covent Garden Opera in 2025), Sisikelelwe Mngenela (a Victoria K Bennett Music competition winner), and Siyabonga Motloung, who sang the lead role in Philip Miller’s Nkoli: The Vogue Opera, are part of the stellar line-up. An accomplished operatic baritone himself, Professor Freschi will also take to the stage for a special performance. On the keys, look forward to Johannesburg-based pianist Eugene Joubert and renowned concert pianist Christopher Duigan.
But it's not just a grand night for singing; it's about empowering futures through music and art. This gala fundraiser for the Dean's Bursary Fund provides financial assistance to academically deserving FADA students. "We have a responsibility to nurture talent and ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of academic potential," says Freschi. "[This concert] is not just a celebration of the best vocal music, but a celebration of the futures we are helping to shape."
On the night of the concert, there will be a silent auction of artworks and jewellery in the foyer of the theatre, the proceeds of which will contribute to the Dean's Bursary Fund.
A Grand Night for Singing takes place on Sat, Nov 2 at the UJ Arts Centre (Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre on the Kingsway Campus) from 18:30 – 21:30. Book tickets now.
