On Friday 21 April, 7:30pm in the Endler Hall, Stellenbosch, flutist Liesl Stoltz and pianist José Dias present a uniquely curated programme of French works for flute and piano. From the impressionistic beauty of Philippe Gaubert to the modernist brilliance of Guillaume Connesson or Nicolas Bacri, and with an almost compulsory turn at Francis Poulenc’s wit and charm, this programme paints a kaleidoscopic picture of French musical genius, unsurpassed in the writing for this spellbinding instrument. In their own respective ways, each of the composers on the programme contributed to creating new, astonishing soundscapes, and unlocking the flute’s endless expressive range, as well as the sheer beauty and unexpected savage power of its sound. In the hands of a consummate virtuoso such as Liesl Stoltz, accompanied by her long-standing duo partner José Dias, this programme is an unmissable journey of discovery and astonishment.

Liesl Stoltz studied at Stellenbosch University after which she studied in France and Italy where she obtained diplomas with distinction. In 2010 she obtained the degree DMus from the University of Cape Town and continued with post-doctoral studies at the same institution. Liesl has won numerous prizes in national and international competitions in Romania and Germany. At present she performs extensively as soloist and chamber musician and teaches at the South African College of Music, University of Cape Town.

José Dias is a familiar name to local audiences. He is a regular presence in all major concert halls and Arts Festivals in South Africa and is in high demand as pianist and musical director, chamber musician, vocal accompanist and vocal coach. Alongside his busy performance schedule, José is also a part-time lecturer at Stellenbosch University’s Music Department, working within the voice and choral conducting divisions.

Tickets for R150 (regular), R110 (pensioners 60 years +) and R50 (students and scholars) are available now through Webtickets and at the door one hour before the concert.