Celebrating 20 years of music: the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival

Kevin Harris whose specially commissioned work 'RESONANCE' will receive its world premiere at SICMF
Image: Robert Torres
The Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival (SICMF) is set to captivate audiences as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with an extraordinary line-up of concerts, masterclasses, and performances from 4 to 13 July at the US Konservatorium in Stellenbosch.
Among the highlights of this prestigious festival is the world premiere of "RESONANCE," an original composition by acclaimed Boston-based jazz pianist Kevin Harris, scheduled for 8 July.
Harris's piece is a contemporary symphonic reflection inspired by the words and actions of anti-Apartheid activist Steve Biko, a titan of the Black Consciousness movement. Drawing from Biko's written works, Harris's composition offers a profound exploration of social justice, encouraging audiences to look beyond the surface into the stories of those often relegated to the shadows, encouraging audiences to look beyond the surface into the stories of those often relegated to the shadows.
'It's an invitation for audiences to reflect on those who suffer in the shadows while also upsetting those who comfortably benefit from status quo,' Harris explained.
Kevin Harris who will pay homage to Steve Biko at the Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival (SICMF
Image: Robert Torres
Artistic Director Nina Schumann has consistently used the SICMF platform to spotlight anti-Apartheid voices, ensuring that legacies like Biko's remain alive in the public consciousness. This year's festival is no exception; Harris's world premiere continues a commendable tradition that has previously featured the works of revered activists and artists.
The SICMF has become known for commissioning compositions that resonate deeply with South African history and culture. Past premieres include poignant tributes to figures such as Denis Goldberg and Johnny Clegg. The festival strives to weave historical narratives and music into an enlightening tapestry that educates and inspires future generations.
This year, Kevin Harris will be accompanied by spoken word artist Namisa Mdlalose, with a rhythm section featuring Lumanyano Biza on drums and Stephen de Souza on bass. The piece will be conducted by Xandi van Dijk, with a faculty ensemble from SICMF contributing to the rich, hybrid musical experience that brings together classical and jazz traditions.
Also a dedicated educator, Harris will host workshops focusing on contemporary improvisational methods for classical performers, aiming to bridge the gap between jazz and classical disciplines. His innovative approach has shown promising results, enabling musicians trained in the European classical tradition to explore their own improvisational creativity.
"RESONANCE" benefits from the generous support of the Ernst von Siemens Foundation, which has also facilitated several unique premieres on the 2025 SICMF programme, ensuring ongoing growth and diversity within the chamber music landscape.
As the festival unfolds in Stellenbosch, attendees can expect not just a celebration of music, but a meaningful engagement with the histories that shape our present.

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