Flute
For further information about flute performance at the School of Music, please contact Mr André Oosthuizen.
Saxophone
Saxophonists benefit from being in an active musical environment and have the opportunity to play in the Wind Ensemble, Big Band, Saxophone Ensemble, North-West Youth Orchestra, and NWU Symphony Orchestra.
Saxophonists are taught fundamental saxophone technique, and are encouraged to use interpretive skills in their performance. They are given opportunities to enrich their studies by participating in master classes with both national and international visiting saxophonists. Students are encouraged to perform during student concerts, ensemble concerts and compete at the annual Pukki Talent Festival as well as bursary competitions. One of the benefits of being a music student at the NWU is the privilege of attending regular concerts by national and international musicians held at the Conservatory.
Students may choose classical and jazz repertoire, allowing them to become flexible musicians in an ever-changing music industry. It is expected of saxophonists to be able to perform both as a soloist and as part of an ensemble.
For further information about saxophone performance at the School of Music, please contact Mr André Oosthuizen.
Bassoon
Prof van der Merwe teaches for well-being. She fosters positive relationships with her students and engages them during lessons by playing duets with them and using movement when applicable. Prof van der Merwe also supports and facilitates the achievement of her students’ goals. Many of her students have played in the South African National Youth Orchestra (SANYO), completed their studies and are employed as musicians. She also supports SANYO in their What it takes bassoon courses and has presented masterclasses at these courses since 2015. A highlight is the annual visit of the esteemed bassoon player Douglas Bull. He is a bassoonist in the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin and shares best practices with the NWU bassoon students.
When you study bassoon at NWU School of Music, you’ll get the opportunity to play in many different contexts, including the NWU Symphony Orchestra, the North-West Youth Orchestra, the NWU Wind Ensemble, chamber music groups, and in community music settings.
For further information about bassoon performance at the School of Music, please contact Prof Liesl van der Merwe.