Role

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Ensemble

 

The Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) is a classical music ensemble based in Johannesburg, South Africa. The orchestra was founded in 2000, following the merger of the National Symphony Orchestra and the Johannesburg Symphony Orchestra. The JPO has had a number of notable conductors over the years, including Michael Hankinson, Bernhard Gueller, and Arjan Tien. The current music director is Brandon Phillips. The JPO has a core of around 80 musicians, with additional players brought in for larger works. The orchestra performs a wide range of repertoire, from classical works by Mozart and Beethoven to contemporary pieces by South African composers. One of the highlights of the JPO's history was its performance at the 2010 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony. The orchestra played a medley of South African songs, including "Shosholoza" and "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika," to a global audience of millions. The JPO has also collaborated with a number of international soloists, including pianist Yundi Li and violinist Joshua Bell. In 2018, the orchestra performed with Grammy-winning soprano Pretty Yende in a concert celebrating Nelson Mandela's centenary. In addition to its concert performances, the JPO is also involved in community outreach programs. The orchestra runs a music education program for underprivileged children in Johannesburg, providing them with access to music lessons and instruments. The JPO has received a number of awards and accolades over the years. In 2013, the orchestra won the Classical Music Award at the South African Music Awards. The JPO has also been nominated for a number of International Opera Awards, including Best Opera Orchestra in 2017. Despite its successes, the JPO has faced financial difficulties in recent years. In 2019, the orchestra was forced to cancel a number of concerts due to funding shortages. However, the JPO remains committed to bringing classical music to audiences in South Africa and beyond.

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