The University of Cape Town Symphony Orchestra (UCTSO) and the Cape Town Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (CPYO) unite under the baton of Brandon Phillips for New World, Young Voices, a concert celebrating young musical talent, artistic collaboration and the future of orchestral music in South Africa.

Featuring pianist Isaac van der Merwe as soloist, the combined orchestra of more than 100 of the country's finest young musicians will perform Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2, Dvořák's most loved Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”, and the world premiere of “Chaos in Disguise, Part 1”  by Kyle Benade.

Phillips, permanent conductor of the UCTSO, resident conductor of the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra and former music director of the CPYO, says the concert reflects the close relationship between the two ensembles.

"This collaboration embodies the shared commitment of both organisations to nurturing the next generation of orchestral musicians. Together we provide young players with opportunities to refine their artistry, develop professional performance skills and grow as musicians and individuals. It is always a pleasure to welcome CPYO musicians into the UCTSO, and several performers in this concert are members of both orchestras."

Phillips is equally delighted to welcome Isaac van der Merwe back as soloist. A graduate of UCT and a familiar performer with both orchestras, Isaac takes on one of the most treasured works in the piano repertoire.

"Rachmaninoff's Second Piano Concerto is a masterpiece of sweeping melodies, passionate lyricism and dazzling virtuosity. It remains one of the most exhilarating and emotionally rewarding concertos for both audiences and performers."

The concert also showcases the next generation of South African composers with the premiere of Kyle Benade's “Chaos in Disguise, Part 1“. For the composer, “the piece carefully blends my favourite musical styles from Renaissance to Romantic, while infusing elements from music outside the ‘classical’ world”.

The work won the University of Cape Town's prestigious Jan Royce Prize for Orchestral Composition, an award that has recognised many outstanding young composers. Previous recipients include Conrad Asman, who also won the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra's inaugural South African Composers' Competition, as well as Loren Ehlers, James Geldenhuys, Matthew Pratt, CPO violinist Rebekah Beelders, Alexander Vavatzanidis and Johannes Visser.

Speaking about Benade's new work, Phillips says, "It is a bold, imaginative score that demonstrates remarkable orchestral colour and confidence. We are proud to introduce a compelling new South African voice to audiences and to continue supporting emerging composers through performances of their work."

New World, Young Voices takes place on Tuesday, October 13, at 19:30 at the Cape Town City Hall.

Tickets are available through Webtickets and Artscape Dial-A-Seat (021 421 7695).