Music

Every year the usually tranquil Backsberg Estate gardens are filled with a medley of orchestral sound – a welcome addition. Backsberg Estate Cellars sponsors the Somerset College Combined Schools Orchestra Festival each year, which is held on the Backsberg farm.

Now in it’s sixth year, this is the only festival of its kind in the area and is fast gaining popularity as one of the most important musical events on the calendar. About 180 learners from all over the Boland and Helderberg areas take part, impressing audiences with their musical talent. Often, this is the only chance they get in the year to stretch their musical muscles and perform as part of a group, because most schools don’t have a functional orchestra.

The festival is unique because it brings together learners from various social and economic backgrounds from about 30 schools and music centres in the area – laying the platform for the forging of friendships and the appreciation of music.

Each learner is sent their music prior to the performance so that they can practice on their own. Then, over the weekend of the festival they all travel down to the Franschhoek area to practice together at Bridge House School for the first time. Over the course of two days an individual musical project is transformed into a collaborative orchestral show which culminates in a performance on the Sunday evening at Backsberg.

Backsberg are grateful to be involved in such a wonderful project, which allows young musicians to build and showcase their talent. The learners work very hard before the event, but by the end of it they are always itching to get started on the following year’s program.