The evening’s itinerary embarks from Aragon, Spain with Chabrier’s España, a rhapsody based on the Jota, a smoldering dance from the Northern territories. This proved to be an instant hit with audiences and musicians alike, being cited as one of the most authentic works in a Spanish flavour. The next stop on this otherworldly tour is Sweden. Midsommarvaka, or the Swedish Rhapsody by Alfvén embodies the spirit of the forests bringing to life the old and wise Nordic rhetoric.

An indulgent stopover in Hungary is next on the journey and includes a double helping of Liszt. Dancing to the sultry gypsy rhythms and exotic Zigeuner scales, Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 and his Rhapsody on Hungarian Folk Melodies will mesmerise and enchant its listeners. The soloist who will narrate the tale of the Hungarian Folk Melodies will be Frants Preis, a brilliant young pianist in his final year of Music, studying under Prof Joseph Stanford at the University of Pretoria. 

Finally, the audience can look forward to buckling up for the turbulent flight through Rumania in Enesco’s Rumanian Rhapsody No. 1. Bringing the journey to the end, the Orchestra will amaze as never before, gliding through the complex rhythms and virtuosic embellishments that have become synonymous with this piece of fire, feeling and flair.

Do not miss out on this once-off voyage through the reminiscence of old folk melodies and song. This concert can be heard on Thursday, 13 May 2010 in the Musaion, University of Pretoria Main Campus, at 19:00. Tickets will be available only at the door so come early to guarantee a seat! Tickets are R60,00 and R40,00 (students and pensioners). For more information, contact 012 420 4183 or email [email protected].