"Music and the arts, are a definite expression of the individual - it communicates with an unreserved honesty of paths travelled and of dreams and expectations for the journey still to come. In the gentle rising and falling melody of a single clarinet or the power of a seventy strong orchestra in full symphonic flight, evocative images are created, masked emotions revealed, the soul is cleansed. And it is in the shared experience of a gathered audience that communities are united, celebrating both their diversities and their common ground."

Since its inaugural concert held in the Pietermaritzburg City Hall in 1983, the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra has shared these experiences to diverse audiences both nationally and abroad. Commonly referred to as Africa's premier orchestra, the KZNPO's commitment to music of a higher caliber has been the driving force behind the multitude of live performances given throughout each year, as well as a comprehensive education and development initiative which proves to be an essential resource for up and coming musicians in our country.

Its World Symphony Series subscription concerts display the highest attendance throughout the country, while performances of light classics and popular music bring an unusually wide variety of orchestral music to an increasing public. In addition to these performances, the Orchestra provides excellent musical representation in the pit for a variety of musical theatre, ballet and opera productions.

The KwaZulu Natal Philharmonic Orchestra also travels regularly throughout the province, bringing a variety of music to masses of people who have never previously experienced the sound of a symphony orchestra. Also playing an important role in the Orchestra's development efforts is the National Cadetship Programme, which is designed to gather together promising orchestra players from all over South Africa. Students are placed and funded as full time cadets with the Orchestra, and the initiative has already made remarkable progress.

The KZN Philharmonic is a non profit company, with a board of directors consisting of prominent business people and community leaders. Facing the future with optimism, this Orchestra will continue to encourage music enthusiasts to depart from the comfort of their homes, and head towards the unparalleled excitement of experiencing a live performance.

Address : 3rd Floor, 29 Acutt Street, Durban, 4001
Contact : (tel) +27 (0) 31 369 9438 (fax) +27 (0) 31 369 9403