Helderberg Sunset Concerts 2012

Big band opens Helderberg sunset concerts series

The internationally acclaimed South African Navy Band opens the sunset concerts series at the Helderberg Nature Reserve in Somerset West on Sunday, 25 November 2012.

The premier band of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has been a regular on the international military music scene since 2002. The Band has performed in Germany, the Netherlands, Russia, England, Scotland and Burundi. It has also travelled the length and breadth of South Africa. The repertoire of the band is diverse and representative of the many different cultures that make South Africa such a wonderfully unique country.

The band comprises 47 musicians who are able to adapt to its varied musical requirements. The band’s primary function is to provide music for ceremonial occasions such as the inaugurations of past Presidents Mandela and Mbeki, openings of Parliament, the Presidential Fleet Review held in Simon’s Town in 2009, and the Navy’s own parades.

The SA Navy Band is the most versatile band in the SANDF, having various ensembles that can provide music for almost any occasion. These groups include the Concert and Parade Bands, a Marimba Ensemble, Chamber Group, Stage Band, Dance Band and smaller background music groups.

Since 2002, the Marching Band has become a regular feature in the international military music arena, having performed at the Bremen Music Show of the Nations, Germany, in January 2002, 2004 and 2008. In 2003, the band also participated at The Netherlands National Tattoo. At all these performances, the SA Navy Band was hailed as one of the best.

The SA Navy Band's latest CD 'All of me', featuring WO2 Willie van Zyl, is now available for purchase.

Pack a picnic, arrive early and enjoy the sunset and excellent performers. The concert starts at 17:30 and tickets can be bought at the gate. The cost is R40 per adult and R10 for scholars. There is no admission fee for children under the age of five. The proceeds of the concerts are used to support conservation and environmental education projects at the Reserve.

Issued on behalf of the concerts committee for the Friends of the Helderberg Nature Reserve.

Enquiries: (021) 851-4060. www.helderbergnaturereserve.co.za

Caption: Pack your picnic and come and enjoy the sound of the SA Navy Band at the Helderberg Nature Reserve in Somerset West on 25 November.