What to listen for at Enchanted Baroque – and why the reception is the season’s most elegant addition:
Ahead of the much-anticipated Enchanted Baroque concert at St George’s Cathedral on 19 December, Opera UCT offers audiences a short guide on how to get the most out of this timeless musical era – and a preview of the exclusive post-concert reception supported by Klein Constantia wines.
Presented by the KT Wong Foundation, Gavin Rajah, and Opera UCT, the concert brings together Opera UCT singers and a specialist Baroque ensemble (string quintet, oboe, harpsichord and chamber organ), under the baton of Professor Jeremy Silver.
A varied mix of arias, duets and larger ensembles from Handel operas and oratorios, with some Tallis and Rameau to finish. Incorporating the serene beauty of “As steals the morn upon the night” from “L’allegro, il Penseroso ed il Moderato”, the vocal fireworks of “Voglio tempo” from ”Il trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno” and the rousing energy of “Why do the Nations” from “Messiah”
For first-time listeners and seasoned classical fans alike, the evening promises an hour of shimmering strings, expressive voices, and the luminous acoustics that only a cathedral can offer.
Discovering Baroque: What to Listen For
Baroque music is defined by its clarity, ornamentation, rhythmic pulse, and emotional immediacy. In St George’s Cathedral – a space built for resonance – the music will bloom naturally, linger in the air, and take on the immersive qualities imagined by composers like Handel, Purcell and Vivaldi. From intricate melodic “jewellery” to musical conversations between instruments and voice, the programme offers an accessible entry point into one of history’s most expressive musical periods.
December is a season of reflection and celebration – and Baroque music is uniquely suited to both. Its emotional warmth, rhythmic brilliance, and spiritual resonance provide a moment of stillness before year-end festivities, making Enchanted Baroque Cape Town’s most elegant cultural offering this season.
A Reception to Savour – With the Support of Klein Constantia
Following the concert, patrons who select the reception option will gather in The Labyrinth at St George’s Cathedral for an atmospheric evening of conversation and celebration. Guests will enjoy a curated selection of iconic wines generously provided by Klein Constantia, one of South Africa’s most storied estates. The reception extends the concert experience, allowing audiences to reflect, socialise, and enjoy the festive atmosphere inside the city’s most historic sacred space.
A New December Tradition in the Making
With outstanding young vocalists, Baroque specialists, world-class partners and the Cathedral’s breathtaking acoustics, Enchanted Baroque is poised to become one of Cape Town’s most cherished festive traditions – a celebration of beauty, music, and community at the close of the year.
Details and Ticketing Link: https://myza.co.za/events/event/enchanted-baroque-a-first-of-its-kind-cathedral-concert-comes-to-st-georges/
plum moon
Bobotie – a spicy mince dish [buh-boor-tee] This delicious dish originated in Malay cooking and is made with spicy minced meat, baked in the oven with an egg custard topping. It is usually served with yellow rice and raisins.
Preach Man
A buddy in Cape Town saw some dude cat calling a coloured woman with that kst kst kst sound, so she turns around and says \”What? You got a puncture in your face or something??\”